CeeDee Lamb Becomes Second-Highest Paid Skill Position Player After Quarterbacks

CeeDee Lamb stood his ground, making it clear early in the summer that he needed a new deal before reporting for the upcoming NFL season with the Dallas Cowboys. Jerry Jones, Cowboys’ owner, initially expressed little urgency to finalize a contract with Lamb, projecting confidence that he wouldn’t rush to pay one of the NFL’s top receivers.

As the preseason wrapped up yesterday, there was still no sign of CeeDee Lamb reporting to the team. Finally, under pressure, Jerry Jones caved and gave Lamb what he deserved: a historic four-year, $136 million deal, including a record $38 million signing bonus. The deal, which pays Lamb $34 million annually, makes him the second-highest-paid receiver in the league, just behind the Minnesota Vikings’ Justin Jefferson, who earns $35 million annually.

The former Oklahoma star receiver now has $100 million guaranteed. Lamb has proven to be a prolific playmaker for the Cowboys over the past four years, with 395 catches for 5,145 yards and 32 touchdowns. His 2023 season was particularly impressive, with 135 receptions for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns.

The question now is whether the Dallas Cowboys can enter the season in sync on both sides of the ball. Additionally, how much will other top wide receivers like the Cincinnati Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase and San Francisco’s Brandon Aiyuk command in their upcoming extensions? With the market continually rising, it’s up to front offices to stay ahead before they find themselves making history with even bigger deals.