The Dallas Cowboys are entering Week 1 with significant concerns, especially around star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s potential absence. Lamb’s performance in 2023 was nothing short of stellar, leading the league with 135 receptions, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns.
However, as the season opener approaches, Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, is notably nonchalant about the situation. His laid-back approach to Lamb’s contract negotiations has drawn parallels to the Ezekiel Elliott holdout saga of 2019, which also saw Jones taking a leisurely approach until the situation became dire.
Insider Dave Helman, speaking on the “SPEAK” YouTube show, didn’t mince words about the gravity of Lamb’s absence. According to Helman, Lamb isn’t just a key player; he’s the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offense.
The depth behind Lamb is concerningly thin, making his presence crucial if the Cowboys hope to make a strong start in the new season. Helman pointed out that Lamb’s absence could significantly derail the team’s plans, especially given the reliance on his game-changing abilities.
The numbers support this concern. Lamb isn’t just another receiver; he’s a record-breaker. His 2023 season stats are a testament to his ability to dominate the field, making his absence a potential disaster for the Cowboys’ offense. But Jones, in classic fashion, is playing it cool, refusing to set any hard deadlines for a deal.
His approach echoes the infamous “Zeke who?” moment from 2019, where Jones downplayed Elliott’s importance until the holdout forced his hand. That situation ended with Elliott securing a massive contract after a 40-day holdout in Cabo, a scenario that seems to be influencing Lamb’s current strategy.
The ticking clock adds to the drama. With September 2nd as the unofficial deadline before the Cowboys start preparing for Week 1, time is running out for Jones to strike a deal. Helman’s comments suggest that a deal will likely be struck before the opener, but the uncertainty is making Cowboys fans anxious. The stakes are incredibly high, with the possibility of starting the season without their star receiver looming large.
ESPN’s Jeff Darlington added more fuel to the fire by revealing that the Cowboys haven’t even settled on basic contract details with Lamb, such as salary or contract length. This isn’t just a negotiation; it’s a high-stakes poker game with millions of dollars on the line. The situation has all the elements of a dramatic showdown, with Lamb holding significant leverage as the team’s offensive cornerstone.
Lamb’s approach seems to be influenced by Elliott’s successful holdout in 2019. Back then, Elliott managed to secure a $90 million contract with $50 million guaranteed after a lengthy standoff. It appears Lamb might be following the same playbook, leveraging his value to secure a lucrative deal before stepping back onto the field. The similarities between the two situations are striking, with both players recognizing their worth and using the offseason to push for better terms.
Former NFL wide receiver James Jones is firmly in Lamb’s corner, openly supporting his decision to hold out if necessary. Jones highlighted the importance of Lamb to the Cowboys’ offense, stating that his absence would be a significant blow to the team’s chances this season. Jones’ comments underscore the critical nature of these negotiations, framing them as essential not just for Lamb but for the Cowboys’ overall success.
But it’s not just about money for Lamb; it’s about timing and strategic leverage. As James Jones pointed out, if both Lamb and Prescott were in camp, the Cowboys would likely prioritize getting a deal done with their quarterback first. By staying out, Lamb ensures that the focus remains squarely on his contract, increasing the pressure on Jones to come to the table with a substantial offer.
Elliott, now a veteran, provided some insight into the dynamics of contract negotiations, noting that the process can be tough as players shift from being teammates to opponents in financial negotiations. However, he also emphasized the shared goal of success, suggesting that despite the current standoff, the team remains united in its desire to see Lamb back on the field.
The situation took another twist with Lamb’s cryptic social media posts, which some interpret as a signal that he’s ready to take a harder stance in negotiations. These posts, coupled with insider commentary, suggest that Lamb is prepared to play the “bad guy” if necessary to secure the deal he deserves. This tactic could ramp up the pressure on Jones, who must decide whether to meet Lamb’s demands or risk starting the season without his top receiver.
As the days tick down to September 2nd, the tension within the Cowboys organization is palpable. Helman’s prediction that a deal will be struck before the season opener offers some hope, but nothing is certain in the world of NFL negotiations. The outcome of this high-stakes standoff will have far-reaching implications for the Cowboys’ season and Lamb’s career.
For now, the ball is in Jerry Jones’ court. Will he fumble the opportunity to secure his star receiver, or will he pull off a last-minute deal that keeps both Lamb and the Cowboys’ fans happy? The answer could define the Cowboys’ 2024 season, making these next few days critical for the team’s prospects. Fans are holding their breath, waiting to see if Jones can deliver a touchdown in the negotiating room before the Cowboys take the field.
The post Crisis in Dallas? Why Jerry jones’ cowboys afraid of Ceedee Lamb’s absence in week 1, All eyes on Elliott’s plan. appeared first on Classic Sport.
