Ranking the Cowboys top training camp priorities after Zack Martin mess

No. 2 Cowboys training camp priority: CeeDee Lamb contract extension

CeeDee Lamb will make $2.5 million this season and $17.9 million next season before hitting free agency in 2025. That is, unless the Cowboys can agree to terms on an extension for the 24-year-old Oklahoma product.

Lamb has quickly emerged as one of the best players at his position. Dak Prescott is a talented QB and the Cowboys have always dominated in the trenches, but it’s hard to imagine Dallas achieving the same potency without Lamb slicing defenses apart on the outside. His twitchy athleticism, blistering speed, and suction-cup hands make him a sight to behold; he’s truly one of the most entertaining offensive players in the world.

Naturally, he’s going to fetch a high price — one has to imagine somewhere in the range of Tyreek Hill’s four-year, $120 million contract with Miami. That’s a steep price for any non-QB, but the Cowboys’ QB doesn’t look the same without Lamb. It’s that simple, and he should probably get a hefty dollar amount accordingly.

No. 1 Cowboys training camp priority: Restructuring Zack Martin’s contract

Zack Martin has a credible case to be called the Cowboys’ best player. An eight-time Pro Bowler and member of the Hall of Fame all-2010s team, Martin has cemented his place in Cowboys history. Of course he should get top dollar, and of course the Cowboys should be happy to supply it.

One thing that has separated Dallas from the field for virtually Martin’s entire career is the offensive line. The Cowboys have cultivated multiple superstar running backs behind that O-line, and launched multiple high-level quarterbacks. Ezekiel Elliot doesn’t reach his peak without the blocking presence of Martin and others in the trenches.

Since Martin is the only Cowboys mainstay actually threatening to not show up to camp, it’s hard not to peg him in the No. 1 spot. Dallas needs their veteran leader and offensive beating heart. Martin has put in the work; he deserves the utmost respect and a lucrative new deal from Jerry Jones.