The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their willingness to spend big on star talent, and this strategy has resulted in some of the most lucrative contracts in NFL history. With a roster of high-profile players, the Cowboys have committed substantial financial resources to secure their key performers. Let’s dive deeper into the highest-paid Cowboys players of all time and the details behind their record-breaking deals.
1. Dak Prescott – $240 Million (2024-2028)
At the top of the list is Dak Prescott, who signed a historic four-year, $240 million contract extension in 2024. This deal solidified Prescott’s place as the Cowboys’ franchise quarterback, with $231 million guaranteed. After suffering a serious injury in 2020, Prescott bounced back to lead the Cowboys to playoff appearances, justifying the team’s financial commitment. His contract includes an average annual salary of $60 million, making him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL WFAA spotrac.com.
2. CeeDee Lamb – $136 Million (2024-2029)
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is next, with a four-year, $136 million deal signed in 2024. This contract includes $67 million guaranteed, recognizing Lamb as the future of the Cowboys’ passing game. After being drafted in 2020, Lamb quickly established himself as a premier wide receiver, and his contract reflects his growing importance to the Cowboys’ offensive strategy. With his speed and playmaking ability, Lamb is set to be a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ future WFAA spotrac.com.
3. Trevon Diggs – $97 Million (2023-2028)
Cornerback Trevon Diggs, who has become one of the NFL’s most exciting defensive players, signed a five-year, $97 million contract extension in 2023. Diggs’ deal includes $42 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $19.4 million. Known for his ability to intercept passes and disrupt offenses, Diggs has been a critical part of the Cowboys’ secondary, and his new contract ensures that he will remain a key player for years to come spotrac.com.
4. DeMarcus Lawrence – $40 Million (2022-2024)
Veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence secured a three-year, $40 million contract extension in 2022, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in Cowboys history. Lawrence’s $30 million in guaranteed money highlights his consistent performance and leadership on defense. A Pro Bowl player, Lawrence has been an anchor for the Cowboys’ defensive line, using his strength and agility to sack opposing quarterbacks and stop the run spotrac.com.
5. Zack Martin – $36.8 Million (2023-2024)
Zack Martin, one of the most decorated offensive linemen in NFL history, rounds out the top five with a two-year, $36.8 million contract extension. A six-time first-team All-Pro, Martin’s deal includes $36.8 million guaranteed, underscoring his importance to the Cowboys’ offensive line. Known for his durability and consistency, Martin has been a key factor in protecting the Cowboys’ quarterbacks and opening up runninglanes WFAA spotrac.com.
The Strategy Behind Big Spending
The Cowboys’ willingness to spend big on their top talent stems from their desire to remain competitive in a highly demanding NFL landscape. By securing long-term deals with core players, the team ensures that they maintain stability and talent on both sides of the ball. While these contracts come with significant financial commitments, they reflect the Cowboys’ strategy of building around proven stars and investing in players they believe can lead them to future success.
