CeeDee Lamb’s Restructured Contract: A Strategic Move by the Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys recently restructured CeeDee Lamb’s contract, freeing up approximately $20 million in salary cap space for the 2025 season. While this move might appear as a gesture of cooperation from Lamb, the reality is that the Cowboys had the contractual right to restructure his deal at any time without requiring his approval. This decision is a calculated financial strategy aimed at maximizing cap flexibility while keeping their star wide receiver on board.
How the Restructure Works
Lamb’s original contract had a fully guaranteed 2025 salary of $26.85 million. Under the restructure, the Cowboys converted most of that salary into a signing bonus, which allows them to spread the cap hit over multiple years. Specifically, only $1.17 million remains as base salary, while the remaining $25.675 million is converted into a signing bonus. This spreads about $5.135 million annually over the next five years, delaying most of the cap impact to future seasons. While this creates immediate savings, it increases the team’s financial obligations down the line
Why This Move is Strategic
Cap Flexibility for Other Signings
The Cowboys are looking to lock in key players like Micah Parsons and potentially extend Dak Prescott. By restructuring Lamb’s deal, they now have more room to maneuver in the 2025 offseason and address other contract negotiations
No Pay Cut for Lamb
Lamb still receives his full salary, just in a different structure that benefits the team. Additionally, since he plays in Texas, where there is no state income tax, this restructure actually benefits him financially
Standard Practice for NFL Teams
This type of restructuring is common in the NFL, especially for star players with high cap hits. It allows teams to remain competitive while postponing some financial burden to later years
Long-Term Implications
While the Cowboys gain immediate cap relief, this move pushes larger cap hits into the future, making future financial flexibility more challenging. If the team does not plan well, they could face significant salary cap difficulties in upcoming seasons. However, if they continue restructuring deals strategically, they can maintain a competitive roster while managing these delayed cap hits
Final Thoughts
CeeDee Lamb’s contract restructure was a savvy move by the Cowboys, allowing them to gain cap space for 2025 without impacting Lamb’s earnings. This is likely part of a larger financial strategy as Dallas prepares for major contract negotiations with other star players. However, it also increases the team’s financial obligations in future years, meaning careful management will be crucial going forward.