Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was notably absent as the team kicked off their voluntary offseason workouts this week. According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, Lamb did not attend the first day of the offseason program on Monday.
Given that Lamb is entering the fifth year of his rookie contract, which is worth $17.991 million and fully guaranteed, it is not surprising that he is seeking a significant pay raise. The three-time Pro Bowler’s importance to the Cowboys is undeniable, and with division rival Philadelphia Eagles recently extending DeVonta Smith with a three-year, $75 million deal, Lamb’s absence from workouts has shed light on his contract situation.
As negotiations continue, it is expected that Lamb will be seeking a contract that surpasses Smith’s $25 million-per-year average. With other star wide receivers like Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase also in line for new deals, the longer the process drags on, the higher the cost could become.
While Lamb’s absence from voluntary workouts is a common tactic during contract negotiations, his decision to skip mandatory minicamp in June or hold out during training camp could signal a more serious stance. However, there is still time for a deal to be reached, and fans will have to wait and see how the situation unfolds in the coming months.
