The saga surrounding James Cook and the Buffalo Bills’ contract negotiations has reached a new chapter, making it look less and less likely that we’ll see an extension coming Cook’s way. Since the close of the 2024 season, Cook has been unwavering in his desire to secure a $15 million-per-year deal.
This figure would propel him to the third highest-paid running back status in the league, trailing only behind Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley. While it’s a hefty sum for a running back who isn’t often utilized on third downs, Cook’s performance makes a strong case for why it might be justified.
Delivering back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and tying for the most rushing touchdowns last season with 16, Cook has shown he’s a force to be reckoned with.
With Cook entering the final year of his rookie contract, he’s looking to cash in on his impressive track record. Yet, the Bills have been busy extending contracts for other critical players like Khalil Shakir, Terrel Bernard, Greg Rousseau, Josh Allen, and Christian Benford, leaving Cook conspicuously absent from the list. It feels like the writing might be on the wall for Cook’s future with Buffalo.
Recent developments suggest that a parting of ways could be imminent. Reports from Nick Veronica of News 4 Buffalo indicate that Cook has put his Orchard Park house up for sale, adding fuel to the speculation of his uncertain future with the team. General Manager Brandon Beane has publicly acknowledged that there hasn’t been significant progress toward a contract extension with Cook and doesn’t anticipate any deals materializing in the near future.
The fact that Cook, who typically keeps a low profile, has chosen to make his stance so public this offseason is telling. He’s open about his frustrations, potentially creating tension within the team’s front office. The Bills organization typically prefers to resolve such matters quietly, making Cook’s approach all the more striking.
With the backdrop of Beane’s moves to secure other players, this could be a signal to Cook regarding where he stands in their priorities. Now might be the time for the Bills to consider trading Cook, especially if an extension is off the table. Given Cook’s abilities, there would likely be no shortage of teams eager to incorporate his talents into their backfield strategy.
Stay tuned as this story unfolds; the Bills’ decision on James Cook could have significant implications for their strategy and roster moves in the near future.
