The Dallas Cowboys are making moves ahead of free agency, with salary cap management becoming a top priority.
After signing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a four-year, $80 million extension, the team created an additional $20.5 million in cap space by restructuring CeeDee Lamb’s contract, according to ESPN.
CeeDee Lamb’s restructure frees up millions
The restructuring doesn’t reduce Lamb’s overall earnings but instead converts most of his $26.85 million base salary for 2025 into a signing bonus.
This adjustment lowers his cap hit from approximately $35.3 million to $14.8 million while spreading out the financial impact over the remaining years of his deal.
The Cowboys had structured Lamb’s contract with this flexibility in mind when he signed his four-year, $136 million extension last offseason.
Though the move primarily benefits Dallas’ financial strategy, Lamb made it clear he was on board for competitive reasons.
When asked about the restructuring on social media, he responded, “I want to win. It’s gonna take more than just myself.”
The newly created cap space will help accommodate Odighizuwa’s new deal, which is set to count around $6.25 million against the cap this year.
However, the Cowboys still have other financial hurdles to clear.
Quarterback Dak Prescott’s current cap hit of $89.57 million is unsustainable, making his contract the next likely target for restructuring.
Adjusting Prescott’s deal could free up an additional $37.2 million, giving Dallas more flexibility heading into free agency.
Additionally, linebacker Micah Parsons is due for an extension, which could further ease the Cowboys’ 2025 cap situation.
The team also faces decisions on key free agents, including cornerback Jourdan Lewis, running back Rico Dowdle, and defensive end Demarcus Lawrence.
Despite Lamb’s move freeing up significant cap room, it remains to be seen how aggressively Dallas will use it.
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones recently told the media that the team plans to be “selectively aggressive” in free agency.
That approach, however, may not sit well with fans, or players, if it doesn’t translate into meaningful roster upgrades.
With holes to fill on both sides of the ball, Lamb’s restructuring was a necessary first step.
Now, it’s up to the Cowboys’ front office to make the most of their financial flexibility.
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