James Cook Contract Dispute Update
One of the bigger storylines in Orchard Park is James Cook’s contract dispute. The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his rookie deal and wants an extension. Cook participated fully in the Bills offseason program and the beginning of training camp before holding out on Day 9. According to Buffalo Bills reporter Alaina Getzenberg, when RB James Cook asked why he didn’t practice today? “Business.” Followed up with if he’ll practice tomorrow: “Business.” Kept repeating “business” over and over. Cook is not pleased with the current state of contract talks and may continue to sit out.
Cook’s Next Contract And Career Stats
The two-time Pro Bowl running back is entering his 4th year in the NFL. He’s reached over 1000 rushing yards in his last two years and had 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024, which was a career high and tied for league high. Cook, known for his speed and big-play ability, was a key piece to the Bills recent success with the ground game, taking pressure off of superstar Josh Allen. Allen’s rushing yards have dipped a bit over the last two years. Cook’s emergence and the Bills increased commitment to the run game are key reasons why. The shift has allowed Buffalo to achieve a better balance on offense.
Cook is reportedly looking for an extension at $15 million per year, which would make him one of the highest-paid running backs in the NFL. Many fans have mixed opinions. Some fans believe investing significant money in running backs is a questionable move. The position requires consistent physical contact, which can lead to durability concerns and shorter career spans. Many also often view the position as more replaceable than other positions, as you see many running backs come out of nowhere and make a name for themselves. On the other hand, Cook has a legitimate case for a big extension. He’s been highly productive over the past two seasons, topping 1,000 rushing yards while improving as a pass-catcher. His efficiency, speed, versatility, and ability to stay on the field set him apart from many other backs.
At just 25 years old, Cook is in his prime and has at least another three great years ahead of him. Cook plays a critical role in Buffalo’s offense, easing the load off Josh Allen and contributing to a more balanced attack. In today’s NFL, elite running backs who impact both the run and pass game deserve to be compensated accordingly. The final decision falls on the Bills front office. How they value Cook’s production, role, and long-term outlook will ultimately determine whether he gets the deal he is looking for or not.
Bills Options If They Cannot Reach an Agreement With Cook
If Cook and the Bills front office can’t agree on an extension soon, it’s fair to believe he could sit out or demand a trade. The best option for Buffalo would be to pay Cook soon to save the team from more drama. The regular season is nearing, and the last thing teams want is off-field drama heading into the season. At some point, the Bills may have to seriously explore trade possibilities if talks continue to stall. The most likely cost for Cook would be a second or third-round draft pick. Running backs just aren’t valued heavily unless they are Saquon Barkley or Jahmyr Gibbs. Additionally, Cook needs an extension and may not play until he gets one, which will knock down his trade price.
Teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns could be among those interested. Both are thin at running back and would benefit from a proven playmaker like Cook. In Cleveland, Jerome Ford and Quinshon Judkins offer promise, but Ford is known for being a backup, and Judkins may be facing a potential suspension due to his arrest on domestic violence charges. In Dallas, Javonte Williams and rookie Jaydon Blue headline a backfield that lacks a true No. 1 option. Cook would provide an immediate upgrade in either situation. As we inch closer to the regular season, the Bills must decide whether Cook is worth the long-term investment or if it’s time to move on. Either way, a resolution is needed soon before the situation becomes a real distraction.
Main Photo: [Tina McIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle] – USA Today Sports
The post James Cook Contract Dispute: Latest News appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.