Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is the only player on the team that hasn’t attended OTAs and it was to be expected. There is contract drama going on between Cook and the Bills and it’s a bit of a distraction. After rushing for back-to-back 1,000+ yards and being tied for the most rushing touchdowns last season (16), Cook wants his money.
However, Brandon Beane has made it clear that it’s going to take time to see if both sides can come to an agreement a new contract, if at all. With Cook heading into a contract year, he is looking to get paid. But at the same time, we all know that running backs are devalued outside of Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, and Derrick Henry.
Cook wants minimum $15 million per year and I don’t see the Bills paying him that kind of money, especially since the Bills operate out of a committee. While Cook is the best back for the Bills, he’s not the best player overall for the team.
OC Joe Brady takes a subtle jab at Bills’ star RB
Offensive coordinator Joe Brady spoke with the media today and talked about the absence of Cook, but provided a little jab towards him not being there at One Bills Drive. According to Matthew Bove, Brady said "I love Jimbo but whenever someone isn't here it's a great opportunity for those who are." Per Bove, Brady also said that he is excited to work with Cook again.
"I love Jimbo but whenever someone isn't here it's a great opportunity for those who are." - Joe Brady on James Cook and RB room.
— Matthew Bové (@Matt_Bove) June 3, 2025
Brady said he loves Cook and is excited to work with him again when he's back in Buffalo.
Mandatory mincamp begins next week.
Sometimes the best ability is availability and Cook is not making himself available which gives guys like Ray Davis and Ty Johnson to take advantage of that opportunity. Obviously, we know that Cook is the true RB1 for the Bills, but this is not exactly a good start to him wanting an extension from the Bills.
There are mixed emotions about Cook’s situation. Some people may think he is being irrational and standoffish with the organization, which there is an argument to that. At the same time, Cook does have a little bit of leverage because of the production he has produced the last two seasons.
Let’s face it, he’s the best back the Bills have had since LeSean McCoy, and his last season with the Bills was in 2018. Cook makes the Bills extra dangerous because he takes pressure off of Josh Allen and the offense.
For the longest time, the Bills’ rushing attack was Allen and that cannot be the case. So yes, I firmly believe that Cook does deserved to get paid. However, $15 million per year is quite the hit to the payroll especially since the Bills operate out of a running back committee. This story is only going to get more interesting as we get further into the summer.