Malik Hooker Favors CeeDee Lamb as Dallas Cowboys' Top Contract Priority

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker names wide receiver CeeDee Lamb as the first player the team should prioritize paying before training camp begins on July 23. Hooker believes Lamb's contributions and leadership make him the most valuable player on the roster.

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker has weighed in on the team's upcoming contract negotiations, expressing his belief that wide receiver CeeDee Lamb should be the first player to receive a new deal. Hooker's assessment comes as the Cowboys prepare for training camp, which begins on July 23.

"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 in an interview with Keyshawn Johnson on the latest edition of "All Facts No Breaks."

Hooker cited Lamb's consistent production and ability to make big plays as key reasons for his selection. "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."

Lamb, a three-time Pro Bowler and the reigning NFL receptions leader, 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).

However, Lamb also finished the season tied for the most turnovers with a league-high three fumbles (two for a loss). Nonetheless, Hooker believes his contributions outweigh any concerns.

Hooker ranked quarterback Dak Prescott, linebacker Micah Parsons, and guard Zack Martin behind Lamb in terms of contract priority. He acknowledged Prescott's leadership and importance to the offense, but felt Lamb's production and value made him more deserving of a new deal.

Martin, a seven-time All-Pro, provides stability to the offensive line, but Hooker believes he is not as impactful as Lamb. Parsons, a Defensive Rookie of the Year winner, has shown immense potential, but Hooker believes he still has room to grow.

"Micah still has a lot to prove," Hooker added. "He has done a great job his first couple of years in the league. Don't get me wrong, he's a fantastic player, but I feel like Micah still has a surface that he [doesn't] even know that he can scratch as far as what he's doing."

Hooker's comments about Parsons have sparked some debate, as the linebacker has been praised for his versatility and playmaking ability. However, Hooker's perspective as a teammate provides a unique insight into Parsons' potential.

The Cowboys have a number of key decisions to make regarding their contracts this offseason, and Hooker's opinions will likely be considered by the front office. The team's ability to negotiate favorable deals while maintaining a strong roster will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season.