Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is set to play on the final year of his rookie contract as he and the franchise were unable to come to terms on a new contract.
Reportedly set to want roughly $15 million APY, Cook is looking to become one of the highest-paid backs in football, and coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, plus 16 rushing touchdowns in the regular season, it is easy to see why James wants a new contract.
But after the Bills gave extensions to Josh Allen, Khalil Shakir, Greg Rousseau, Christian Benford, and Terrel Bernard, there’s little salary cap pie left.
General manager Brandon Beane didn’t rule out giving Cook an extension next offseason, but as we know, the NFL is a fluid business, and what might work for the franchise today won’t in 12 months. So, Cook getting a new deal isn’t exactly set in stone.
But could he force their hand?
We see one way the Bills are almost forced to pay Cook-he plays out of his mind.
In two of his three seasons, Cook has rushed for over 1,000 yards. Last year, he tied the franchise record for rushing touchdowns (16) and tied for first in the league in that stat. Plus, he’s been a Pro Bowler in the last two years.
So, we imagine that Cook would need to rush for at least 1,000 yards again, likely near enough to 16 touchdowns again, and continue to be a playmaker in both the run and pass game.
A better stat line than last year is likely what will make the Bills pay Cook, but this isn’t an exact science. Buffalo could draft a young running back in the next couple of weeks, and then James’ future might be set in stone.
But if not, one way to get his long-term contract is to have a career year in 2025.