CeeDee Lamb is currently facing a difficult position with the Dallas Cowboys. The three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver has decided to miss the team’s mandated minicamp to express his desire for a contract extension.
It appears that both parties will eventually reach an agreement, but in the meanwhile, Lamb’s absence has given a handful of the team’s wide receivers a chance to shine this offseason.
It’s unfortunate that Lamb was not present at minicamp, but at least two of the team’s younger wideouts have benefited from his absence.
According to ESPN commentator Todd Archer, Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks have made some noise in camp: CeeDee Lamb’s absence from the voluntary offseason program led to more opportunity for rookie receivers Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks.
Both shown flashes of ability. Brooks excelled at working through traffic, particularly on tight slant throws. Tolbert played all three receiving positions and was capable of making plays at all levels.
Tolbert or Brooks might be the No. 3 wide receiver behind Lamb and Brandon Cooks, as Michael Gallup has left the team and the Cowboys have yet to sign an experienced wideout.
It’s unlikely that Tolbert or Brooks will challenge Lamb for the WR1 job if and when he returns to the lineup, but it’s encouraging that they’ve taken advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate their worth to the coaches.
The Cowboys will still do everything they can to keep Lamb in Dallas, but they have some backup in case things do not go as planned.