If CeeDee Lamb is curious about the challenges of holding out from training camp, he might want to chat with his Dallas Cowboys teammates Zack Martin and Ezekiel Elliott. These two veteran players have each faced their own extended absences from camp, and their experiences could offer some insight into Lamb's current situation.
A Glimpse into the Holdout Experience
Martin, a stalwart on the Cowboys' offensive line, missed three weeks of training camp last year. His absence was due to a contractual issue, which was eventually resolved with a revised deal. Meanwhile, Elliott's holdout was even more dramatic. Back in 2019, the star running back skipped the entire training camp and preseason while he waited for a new contract. The result? A lucrative six-year, $90 million agreement with $50 million guaranteed.
Lamb's current holdout is relatively brief by comparison—just three days and two practices. But it’s clear he’s aiming high, seeking a deal that would cement his place among the highest-paid receivers in the NFL. According to Cowboys Executive Vice President Stephen Jones, there were recent talks with Lamb's agent, Tory Dandy, as well as with Dak Prescott's agent, Todd France. The goal? To hammer out a deal that would satisfy Lamb’s demands and get him back on the field.
The Emotional Toll of Missing Camp
Martin and Elliott have both described their holdouts as tough experiences. Martin reflected on the solitude he felt during his time away from the team: "You're just at home, man, by yourself," he said. "I was just at home for a couple weeks. My family was up north, so you're sitting there in your thoughts, and you know what's going on at training camp. You know how exciting it is those first few weeks when you're out here getting around the guys and getting going. Just kind of a lonely feeling."
Elliott's experience was a bit different. While Martin stayed local, Elliott took his training to Cabo San Lucas, hoping to stay in shape while his agent negotiated his contract. Despite the sunny beaches, Elliott admitted feeling some "guilt" and "anxiety" as he waited for a resolution. The process was grueling, with Elliott navigating the complex emotions of going up against his own team for the first time. "It’s really tough because you go through your first three or four years and you guys are on the same side, and this is the first time that now you're kind of going against each other," Elliott shared. "So, you've got to have a little thick skin. There's some little extra stuff that comes with it, but at the end of the day, we all have the same goal."
What’s at Stake for Lamb
Currently, Lamb is set to earn $17.99 million on his fifth-year option. However, he's eyeing a new deal that could potentially land him around $32 million annually, with a whopping $100 million guaranteed. Last season, Lamb made a strong case for such a deal, leading the NFL with 135 catches and setting team records with 1,749 yards.
Given the precedent set by Martin and Elliott, there’s reason to believe that Lamb will also navigate his holdout successfully. Both Martin and Elliott managed to overcome their absences without impacting their on-field performance. Elliott had an impressive season, rushing for 1,357 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl nod. Martin also made a statement, being named to the Pro Bowl and securing a spot on the first-team All-Pro list.
The Team's Confidence in Lamb
Neither Martin nor Elliott seems concerned about Lamb’s ability to get back up to speed once his contract situation is resolved. "He's just got to know that everyone in that locker room has got his back," Martin said. "We know hopefully he'll be out here sooner rather than later."
Echoing this sentiment, Elliott noted, "The team understands that CeeDee needs to handle his business, and CeeDee understands that he has the support of the team behind him. Just stay in shape, which it looks like he's doing, and be ready to go once the deal gets done."
The Impact on Training Camp
Despite Lamb’s absence, the Cowboys haven’t adjusted their practice routines to accommodate for it. The team continues to focus on building chemistry between the receivers and quarterbacks. Jalen Tolbert has stepped into Lamb's position with the starters, alongside Brandin Cooks.
Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency during practice: "We need to get the connection between the receivers and the quarterbacks and take advantage of all these great reps we have out here in Oxnard. Take advantage of this weather, so it's really just about getting the volume towards your timing, getting the rhythm, and everything you're trying to get done with the pass game." He added, "So really, we're not affected by that because we would be operating the exact same way."
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys continue their training camp, all eyes will be on Lamb and his ongoing negotiations. His brief absence may be a minor bump in the road, but it’s a reminder of the high stakes involved in professional sports. For Martin and Elliott, their experiences serve as valuable lessons in resilience and the complexities of navigating contract disputes.
For Lamb, the road ahead is still unfolding. With his impressive track record and the backing of his teammates, there's little doubt that he'll find his way back to the field ready to make an impact. Whether he's soaking up the California sun or grinding through solo workouts, Lamb’s focus remains on securing a deal that reflects his value and ensures his place as a key player for the Cowboys.
In the meantime, fans and teammates alike will be watching closely, eager to see how this negotiation saga resolves and how Lamb’s return will energize the team as they head into the new season.
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