29 July 2023 , 19:33
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Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has made a bold forecast for his 2023 production, claiming he will try to "double" his numbers across the board — or at least significantly improve from a campaign that already ranked among the best in the NFL.
"I'm looking to — I would say double it, but I'll be more realistic — I'm looking to be better," Lamb said after a 1,359-yard receiving season. "Catches to yards and touchdowns. Expect a lot."
According to The Dallas Morning News, Lamb and the Cowboys are nowhere near an extension agreement, setting up a potentially tense summer in 2024 when his rookie deal will dwindle to its final year. Dallas already gave another player in Lamb's draft class, Trevon Diggs, a five-year, $97 million extension. But the pass catcher sounds unconcerned with the situation.
"I'm cooling. I'm relaxed," Lamb said. "I'm just glad I've got my man [Diggs] for another five years, though. Many more picks to come. Shout out to my man Tre."
Lamb added: "When it's right, just come let me know something. Other than that I'm just going keep working, keep being in this moment with my guys."
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Entering his fourth season, Lamb is now the Cowboys' leading receiver, taking over that mantle following Amari Cooper's departure last year. He's increased his receiving yard tallies from 935 to 1,102 to 1,359. His 12 yards per touch in 2022 ranked fourth in the NFL.
"I just think ... you're seeing CeeDee take the next step because he was given more opportunities," head coach Mike McCarthy said. "I think for a young player, he's been extremely consistent. He's had things to learn from and grow, but I just love the way he plays and the physicality he plays with. What I appreciate about CeeDee, is his love for football kind of trumps everything. I've never looked at him like, 'OK, he's a [third option] that's developing to [something more]. It's never been like that."
CeeDee Lamb said he's unconcerned about his contract status entering the season. (Getty Images)Dallas will likely need to offer Lamb one of the most lucrative contracts of any NFL receiver to keep him beyond next year. There are currently 13 wide receivers making at least $20 million annually; Lamb will get about that amount total between 2023 and 2024.
With his future earnings on the line, Lamb anticipates fitting in well to McCarthy's passing game as the head coach takes over play-calling duties for Kellen Moore. Plus, the trade addition of wide receiver Brandin Cooks should reduce the amount of double-teams Lamb receives, potentially giving him more downfield opportunities.
"Well, honestly, I don't know what to expect, but I'm very excited," Lamb said. "You look at what he's done. He was calling a couple plays out in Green Bay. So it's nothing new to him. He's been in this position, and he knows what he's doing. And we trust every bit of it. And I can't wait to see, next year."