James Cook Absent from Bills’ Training Due to Contract Negotiations
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook missed training camp practice for the second straight day on Monday as he seeks a contract extension. Cook is in the final year of his rookie contract. Cook was briefly present at the team’s practice, but not in uniform. Instead, he wore training clothes and a cap. He walked around the outskirts of the field, entered a portable toilet, and then returned to the team’s locker room. He did not participate in the rest of the day’s practice. The fourth-year running back did not participate in Sunday’s practice, although he was present throughout the entire session. Afterwards, Cook, 25, told reporters that he was not participating due to “business matters.” Previously, he had participated in all eight team training practices and the three mandatory minicamp days, but was not at the team’s voluntary offseason activities.Bills general manager Brandon Beane commented that they didn’t know Cook wouldn’t practice on Sunday until shortly before practice. Beane also reported that there has been “constant communication” between the Bills and Cook and his team. Cook’s agent has not responded to requests for comment. The two sides have failed to reach an agreement on an extension for the running back despite conversations that also took place in the spring. The Bills extended the contracts of three other members of the 2022 draft class this offseason: Christian Benford, Terrel Bernard, and Khalil Shakir.At the end of the day, I wish we weren’t here. It’s disappointing for me. It’s not something we want, nor something we expect, but sometimes it is and we will face it as best we can.
Brandon Beane, Bills General Manager
Runners Ty Johnson and Ray Davis stated that they learned Cook wouldn’t practice on Sunday at the start of practice.We made many of the deals we tried to make, and it’s well known. We tried to do something with Cook and, unfortunately, it takes two and both parties have to agree on what that number is and, obviously, that hasn’t been achieved, but I’m not here saying that the brokers shouldn’t be paid. I think you just have to find the optimal point.
Brandon Beane, General Manager of the Bills
The Bills have a day off on Tuesday before returning to practice at St. John Fisher University on Wednesday.I respect what he is doing and everything. He is trying to do what’s best for himself. At the end of the day, we’re not in this league for a long time, so he’s trying to get his and I respect that.
Ty Johnson, Bills Running Back
