OXNARD, Calif. – Only one practice with protective equipment remains from one of the longest training camps in Cowboys history.
Jerry Jones came down from the tower between the two practice fields to speak to the media on Tuesday afternoon. The franchise owner talked about expansions that have not been made, what impressed him most about this camp and what work still needs to be done.
The conversation began, as it had since the team arrived in Southern California 29 days ago, with the player who had not responded.
CeeDee Lamb’s resistance continues, with the receiver seeking an extension that would catapult him to the top — or at least the top — of the pay scale for his position.
Jones described the talks as promising. While he did not reveal details or a timeline, he made it clear that both sides are at least on the same page.
“No news yet,” Jones said. “And again, we wouldn’t be where we are now with our numbers if we didn’t plan to sign him.”
The same goes for quarterback Dak Prescott, who is in training camp in the final year of his contract.
“We’re just continuing to talk,” Jones said. “He’s training and working within his existing contract, which is good.”
“You know, one of the things I really want to make clear to our fans is that nine times out of 10, these are existing contracts. They should be able to operate within those contracts.”
Sensing his comment could be interpreted as a jab at Lamb’s resistance, Jones was quick to add how this is seen in the NFL, then stressed that neither side wants this to drag on and impact the start of the regular season in less than three weeks.
So much for the player who isn’t here. Which players in this camp have particularly caught Jones’ eye?
“I’m excited about our offensive line, obviously,” Jones said. “I’m excited about the individual players. I’m excited about the depth there. I’m excited about the youth there. All of that.”
“That’s crucial. It’s vital for us to have the running game. I know it was in the preseason, but I was impressed with how we put pressure on that team (Las Vegas) the other day.
“Our line of attack is what comes to mind.”
Another unit has caught the owner’s attention.
“Just behind our offensive line, I would say I’m impressed with the way our secondary is playing,” Jones said. “All the cornerbacks, nickelbacks, safeties. I’m really happy with where we’re at. Knock on wood.”
“And (Trevon) Diggs back, who intercepted the ball out here today. Those are all good things.”
The defensive line position is still unclear. The additions of veterans Jordan Phillips and Carl Lawson last week will likely not be the last.
“As far as the face goes, we’re probably not done yet,” Jones said. “But regardless, in that area, I like some of the players we’ve brought in over the last few weeks.”
Jones is pleased with the team’s depth overall, and he believes when it comes time to trim the roster down to 53 players next week, there will be difficult conversations about wide receiver, tight end and secondary.
Saturday’s season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers could provide answers to some of these discussions. Jones knows who he’ll be keeping an eye on that afternoon at AT&T Stadium.
“I want us to really be able to have our quarterback down low, and I think I’m talking specifically about No. 19,” Jones said of Trey Lance. “I want him to get more work this weekend. That would be No. 1.”
Jones’ wish should come true. Head coach Mike McCarthy indicates that he is considering having Lance play from start to finish.
“Do we need to see more of Trey Lance?” Jones asked, repeating the question. “The answer is yes. Yes.”
“And he’ll be on the 53.”
Catch David Moore every Monday through Friday at 9:35 a.m. with The Musers during training camp and every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4:35 p.m. on The Hardline on The Tickets (KTCK-AM 1310 and 96.7 FM).
Twitter: @DavidMooreDMN
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