The contract negotiations between the Dallas Cowboys and star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb remain at a standstill.
According to The Dallas Morning News, Lamb’s representatives recently met with the Cowboys on the phone and turned down the latest offer, continuing his holdout as the two sides struggle to reach an agreement.
The Cowboys reportedly approached $33 million per year with their latest proposal, a number that would make Lamb the second-highest-paid receiver in the NFL, trailing only Justin Jefferson’s $35 million annual salary.
But for Lamb, who had PFF’s third-highest receiver grade (91.4) last season, that figure wasn’t enough. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Lamb is looking for more than just a higher number—he also wants changes to the long-term deal’s structure.
“My understanding is it’s around $33 million, and for Lamb, that’s still not good enough,” Garafolo reported. “The structure, I am told, via sources familiar with Lamb’s thinking, needs to be worked on as well—cash flow guarantees and how that will be structured on the front half of the deal.”
Lamb is coming off a career-best season where he led the league with 135 receptions on 179 targets for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. Given his elite production, while splitting time in the slot and on the boundary, it’s clear why Lamb is holding out for near top-of-market compensation.
As the standoff continues, the Cowboys face mounting pressure to get a deal done with their All-Pro receiver. With the regular season fast approaching, Dallas fans are hoping both sides can come to an agreement before Lamb’s absence becomes more impactful.