CeeDee Lamb Sparks Controversy with Free Agent Signing to Oklahoma Sooners.. 
CeeDee Lamb Sparks Controversy with Free Agent Signing to Oklahoma Sooners
In a shocking turn of events, former Dallas Cowboys star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has signed a free agent contract with the Oklahoma Sooners, sparking a wave of controversy and mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. Lamb, who played college football at Oklahoma before being drafted by the Cowboys in 2020, has decided to return to his alma mater under unusual circumstances.
Critics argue that this move undermines the integrity of the professional leagues and the traditional progression from college to professional sports. Some speculate that Lamb’s return to Oklahoma is a strategic move to boost the college’s recruitment efforts and increase their chances of winning a national championship, a tactic that many believe sets a dangerous precedent.
Additionally, there are concerns about the financial implications and the potential for conflicts of interest, given Lamb’s established professional career and endorsement deals. This signing raises questions about the NCAA’s regulations and the future of player eligibility and movement between college and professional sports.
Supporters of Lamb’s decision highlight his loyalty to the Sooners and his desire to give back to the program that helped launch his career. They argue that his experience and talent will significantly benefit the team and inspire current and future players.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how this unprecedented move will impact both the Oklahoma Sooners and the broader landscape of college and professional football.
Hooker even revealed who he thinks the team should prioritize paying before the start of training camp on July 23 when the Cowboys head out to Oxnard, California. Between quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, linebacker Micah Parsons and guard Zack Martin, the former Ohio State standout said that All-Pro wideout Lamb should be first on Dallas’ list.
“I feel like CeeDee should be paid first for the simple fact of what he does for us, how valuable he is for us [and] the leader he is for us as a team,” Hooker said. “You got to look at what’s going on around the league right now. All these big-time receivers are getting paid. In my mind, CeeDee — I’m not saying he’s better than these guys, but I feel like he has shown up in certain situations more than these guys have. … When he does get the ball thrown to him, it’s always a big play. It’s always something that’s electrifying for us as a team.
“I’d go CeeDee [at No.] 1. … You can interchange Zack and Dak at [No.] 2 … Zack Martin gives a lot of those offensive guys confidence to go out there and be able to perform how they do — little do a lot of people know. … When Zack Martin it out there, it’s a different type of confidence. I know he’s gonna do a job.”
CeeDee Lamb Sparks Controversy with Free Agent Signing to Oklahoma Sooners
A three-time Pro Bowler and reigning NFL receptions leader, Lamb finished the 2023-24 regular season with the second-most receiving yards (1,749) and the third-most receiving touchdowns (12). He was also one of just three pass-catchers to average more than 100 yards per game, finishing with the third-best mark (102.9). That said, Lamb also finished the season tied for the most turnovers with a league-high three fumbles (two for a loss).
The 25-year-old Lamb, who’s due $17.9 million on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract, wasn’t present for mandatory minicamp earlier this month as he seeks a new deal after his third consecutive 1,000-plus yard season.
Martin, a former first-round pick by Dallas in 2014, played in 15 games (all starts) this past season, allowing just 4.0 sacks in 908 offensive snaps. His efforts earned him Pro Bowl honors for the ninth time in 10 years and his seventh All-Pro nod. Last summer, Dallas gave Martin an $8.5 million raise in 2023 and 2024 after he held out for a portion of training camp, going from $27.5 million to $36 million guaranteed to make him the third-highest-paid guard in the NFL. The Cowboys have since reworked Martin’s contract, doing so earlier this year to open up salary cap space.
Prescott started all 17 games last season, leading the Cowboys to a 12-5 record and a spot in the wild-card round of the playoffs. He finished with career highs in completion percentage (69.5%) and touchdowns (36). Prescott is in the final year of a four-year, $160 million deal he signed in 2021.
