Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has reportedly shifted gears in his approach to contract negotiations, opting to sit out training camp practices in what appears to be a strategic “hold-in” while seeking a multi-year extension.
In a report published Wednesday night, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic spoke with Zac Hiller, one of Cook’s agents, who offered insight into the 25-year-old’s current mindset as he enters the final year of his rookie deal.
“James Cook only wants to be a Buffalo Bill,” Hiller said. “This isn’t some $200 million Micah Parsons–Jerry Jones negotiation. We’re hopeful there’s a resolution soon, and we’ll keep working toward that every day.”
Cook had previously indicated a desire for a deal worth around $15 million per season. However, that estimate came before Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams signed a three-year, $33 million extension that includes $23 million guaranteed. While Buscaglia acknowledged the comparison is “imperfect,” the sense around the league is that Buffalo may now value Cook closer to $11 million annually.
Cook’s recent production, however, makes a strong case for a raise. According to StatMuse, he ranks ninth in regular-season rushing yards (2,131) since Week 1 of 2023. He also tied for the NFL lead in rushing touchdowns last season with 16, alongside Derrick Henry (Ravens) and Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions), per ESPN.
Despite the contract standoff, Buscaglia reported that there is “no indication” the Bills are considering a trade. That lines up with Buffalo’s high expectations heading into the 2025 campaign. As of Thursday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook listed the Bills and Ravens as co-favorites to win Super Bowl LX, both with +600 odds.
One short-term compromise on the table is a reworked one-year deal that includes enhanced bonus incentives, potentially allowing Cook to earn more this season while delaying long-term talks. Whether Cook is willing to accept such an arrangement remains unclear, with Buffalo’s regular-season opener against Baltimore just a month away on September 7.
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