Why the Cowboys should try to avoid a potential CeeDee Lamb holdout

The Dallas Cowboys should find a way to pay wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and avoid a potential holdout.

Per Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, Lamb — who is entering the final year of his rookie contract — probably won't participate in the Cowboys' offseason program until he signs a new deal.

"Lamb is an elite player on the cusp of market-resetting compensation. Participating in the spring under a rookie-contract team option is not what elite players do," wrote Gehlken. "San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Nick Bosa and New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams were both AP first-team All-Pro picks in 2022. The next spring, they skipped every team workout rather than report on their fifth-year option."

Lamb's 2024 base salary is $17.99M. Earlier this offseason, the three-time Pro Bowler said he wanted to become one of the highest-paid wideouts in the league. Spotrac estimates his market value is a four-year deal worth $28.8M annually, second at his position. 

According to Over the Cap, the Cowboys only have $6.74M in cap room. However, giving Lamb a new deal would save $13.49M.

Lamb's play merits an extension. In 17 games last season, the 25-year-old recorded a league-high 135 receptions for 1,749 yards and 12 TDs. He also finished third in Offensive Player of the Year voting behind WR Tyreek Hill (Dolphins) and running back Christian McCaffrey (49ers).