During a pre-draft press conference at The Star in Frisco, Jerry and Stephen Jones discussed why star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has not yet been granted a contract extension. They cited a lack of information as a reason for the delay, stating that they wanted to see more leaves fall and more action before negotiating a deal. However, a major development occurred when the Detroit Lions signed wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown to a record-setting extension, making him the highest-paid receiver in the NFL and resetting the market for everyone else. This significant move has likely increased the price tag for an extension for Lamb, who is set to play the final year of his contract for $17.99 million.
The Joneses explained that talks with Lamb had not even begun because they were unsure of the number it would take to get him signed. They mentioned that representatives for other top receivers like Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase are talking to each other, potentially driving up the asking price for their clients. Lamb, who was drafted in 2020 ahead of St. Brown, excelled in numerous statistical categories last season but is now facing the prospect of making $12 million less per year than St. Brown’s new average annual salary. The market for top receivers is rapidly evolving, with Jefferson and Chase also seeking new deals that could surpass $30 million per year.
Stephen Jones emphasized the importance of timing in negotiating a contract extension, mentioning that various factors such as cap space and other pending signings can influence the decision-making process. With plans to prioritize an extension for Lamb during the offseason, the unexpected development with St. Brown’s lucrative contract has likely changed the landscape for negotiations. The Joneses will now need to reassess their approach and potentially offer a much higher figure to keep Lamb in Dallas.
Jerry Jones acknowledged that the timing of the negotiations for a Lamb extension may have been miscalculated, given the recent market shifts in player contracts. As the highest-paid receiver in the league, St. Brown’s deal has set a new benchmark that Lamb and his representatives will likely use to push for a higher salary. With the game of cat-and-mouse among top receivers and their agents driving up costs, the Cowboys will need to act swiftly and decisively to secure Lamb’s long-term future with the team before his value increases further. Timing and strategic decision-making will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of receiver contracts in the NFL.
