The Dallas Cowboys have been busy in the early stages of the NFL offseason. They signed star defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a four-year extension, and it looks like they are not done. After handing out big money to Odighizuwa, many have wondered about star defensive end Micah Parsons. The defensive standout is in line for a new deal; undoubtedly, the team wants to get one done. However, the salary cap has to be managed. After handing out big contracts last year, they have to figure out how to free up money for other players. The team announced today they have restructured the deal of star receiver CeeDee Lamb, creating $20 million in cap space.
Dallas Cowboys Restructure Contract Of CeeDee Lamb
ESPN’s Todd Archer reported the Dallas Cowboys have moved some money around on CeeDee Lamb’s deal. This is common practice with larger salaries, as teams defer cap hits down the road to sign players in the short term. Last offseason, the former first-round pick signed a four-year $136 million extension with $100 million guaranteed. While that deal still stands, the team has reportedly restructured the deal to free up some immediate cap space.
While the team has confirmed nothing, this is more than likely preparing for the Parsons contract. Given his pedigree, he will likely reset the market. San Francisco 49ers star Nick Bosa is currently the highest-paid edge rusher in the league, making $34 million a year on a five-year $170 million extension. Parsons will likely look to make slightly more and become the highest paid defensive player in NFL history.
Making Moves
The Dallas Cowboys are not letting the grass grow under their feet this offseason. Last year, Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb spent most of the offseason in negotiations with the front office. They got the deals done, but it spilled over into training camp. Jerry Jones seemingly doesn’t want that to happen again. Getting Odighizuwa signed avoids having to use the franchise tag on him, and this restructure hints at more moves coming.
There is pressure on the Dallas Cowboys to perform well this season. Last year was defined by injuries. Many star players missed significant time, and the team couldn’t overcome the injuries. They made a switch at head coach, hiring longtime NFL coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. All of these moves to restructure and sign players signal the desire to make a run at a Super Bowl. It remains to be seen whether this team can compete, especially in a tough NFC East.
Final Thoughts
The Dallas Cowboys are up to something if they are creating $20 million in cap space. While we can speculate, we never really know with Jerry Jones. The NFL offseason is in full swing, and this is one of many deals that will be worked out in the coming weeks.
