2024 has witnessed another offseason with numerous high-profile receivers securing substantial contract extensions. Among them, Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, and Ja’Marr Chase have emerged as the top contenders for new deals, each waiting for the other to finalize their contracts. 
Jefferson has taken the first step by signing a lucrative extension with the Vikings, making him the highest-earning non-quarterback in the league. Lamb faces a challenge in surpassing Jefferson’s $35MM AAV in his new deal, but negotiations could pick up pace following Jefferson’s contract. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, talks between Dallas and the Pro Bowler could accelerate soon.
Similarly, NFL reporter Josina Anderson expects Lamb’s negotiations to gain momentum now that a new standard has been set. The Cowboys have been patient this offseason in various areas, including acquiring free agents and retaining key players like Lamb, Dak Prescott, and Micah Parsons. Owner Jerry Jones had indicated in April that decisions regarding the quarterback and receiver positions would be made after assessing the market.
This strategy involved waiting for Jefferson to finalize his deal, and it will be intriguing to see if Chase’s talks with the Bengals escalate following this development. Chase had been waiting for Jefferson to set the bar before proceeding with his own negotiations. The Cowboys and Bengals may take different approaches in negotiating the next big receiver contracts in the league.
Lamb, at 25, achieved a new franchise record in 2023 with 135 catches, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns. This performance has boosted his market value, particularly with other receiver deals being finalized recently. While Lamb is set to earn $17.99MM in 2024 on his fifth-year option, a long-term agreement will be more lucrative. Dallas also has to consider potential commitments to Prescott (a pending 2025 free agent) and Parsons (under contract for the next two years).
As expected, Lamb has not participated in the Cowboys’ OTAs, though these workouts are voluntary. However, attendance at the upcoming minicamp is mandatory. The minicamp is scheduled from June 4-6, and any unexcused absence for all three days could result in fines exceeding $100K (though the team may choose to waive them). The situation between Lamb and the Cowboys will be closely monitored in the final days of the team’s offseason program.
