CeeDee Lamb extension: Cowboys’ Micah Parsons calls WR best in NFL, says he’s ‘about to hit the Brink’s truck’

FRISCO, Texas – Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb missed the start of mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, continuing his trend resisting the team’s offseason program in search of a new contract, as he is expected to enter the final season of his debut contract in 2024.

After Minnesota Vikings All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson, the 2022 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, redefined the positional market with a four-year, $140 million contract that includes $110 million in guaranteed money, Lamb’s payday is near, at least in teammate Micah’s mind Parsons, three-time All-Pro edge rusher.

“CeeDee is about to hit Brink’s truck,” Parsons said at mandatory minicamp on Tuesday. “He’s about to get his. I can’t think of anyone more deserving. I think CeeDee is the best receiver in the league if you want to argue top three. In my eyes, seeing his mentality and how he comes in every day.” I think he deserves every penny, so I’ll be super excited for him, whatever the contract is, but it will definitely be a good contract.

Lamb, a 2023 First-Team All-Pro, and Jefferson are undoubtedly peers when we take a closer look at their production. Lamb placed 17th overall in 2020 NFL Draft, five picks before Jefferson, who was selected 22nd overall in the same draft. Lamb has three additional career receptions (395 vs. 392) as well as two more touchdowns (32 vs. 30) than Jefferson in his four NFL seasons. Jefferson has the advantage in receiving yards (5,899 to 5,145). Lamb has suited up in six more career games than the Vikings’ offensive focal point.

The Cowboys’ No. 1 prospect made a compelling case for the “best wide receiver in the league” title that Parsons bestowed upon him. Lamb led the NFL in receptions (135), while ranking second in receiving yards (1,749) and yards from scrimmage (1,862). He broke Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin’s Dallas single-season records for catches (111) and receiving yards (1,603) set in 1995, when the Cowboys last took home the Vince Lombardi Trophy as Super Bowl champions, and Lamb surpassed Irvin’s totals in 16 games.

CeeDee Lamb’s NFL Rankings (2023 Season)

*Cowboys single-season record

If Parsons had a seat at the negotiating table on Lamb’s behalf, he would push for Jerry Jones and Stephen Jones to pay him $36 million a year on average, which would beat Jefferson for the highest average annual salary for a wide receiver. as well as a non-quarterback.

“If I’m his agent, CeeDee will get about $36 [million on an average per year salary],” said Parsons. “But I’m not his agent. Numbers aside, I obviously don’t know what happens to the combative arguments about who versus who and whatever. …I guess you could argue that CeeDee is better [than Jefferson], however you want to put it. But CeeDee should have been there with him.”

Parsons naturally has no problem with Lamb skipping the Cowboys’ offseason program in search of a new contract in the name of preserving his health before signing a new contract. He also confirmed a deep understanding of Lamb’s training regimen outside the Cowboys’ facility.

“You understand that business aspect. Why would CeeDee come here and pull a hamstring or God forbid, anything happen and it would ruin her equity in her body? That’s her driving force,” Parsons said. “But CeeDee is getting better. I put CeeDee through everything. I know how hard he’s been training. He’s super excited for this year. Let the numbers control the numbers and he’ll be back.”

Lamb’s other teammates echoed Parsons’ sentiments regarding their faith in their WR1 to be ready for training camp and the 2024 NFL season.

“That’s it [holding out] part of the deal, and everyone knows CeeDee is doing the right things to prepare for the season,” Cowboys All-Pro right guard Zack Martin said at mandatory minicamp on Tuesday. I don’t think anyone is worried about CeeDee Lamb’s preparation for the season.”

“For me and everyone else, like I said, in some ways it’s okay that he’s not here,” Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott said at OTAs on May 22. (that), he’s fine. I played with him a few times. I think the last time you asked me, I said no and he’s ready to go.

The only downside to Lamb not being in the building is missing out on the camaraderie that comes from practice, but as the Cowboys will be in Oxnard, CA. for training camp from July 22 to August 22, that should take care of itself.

“It’s tough when you’re in the position,” Martin said of Lamb’s situation and lack of practice because of contract negotiations. “The hardest thing is just not being in the building, not being with the guys, not going through it. You sit there wondering what’s going on when I’m not in the building. is it passing? Yes, it is a stressful time, without a doubt. But CeeDee, his play takes care of itself.