Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has fully participated in the first two days of the team’s training camp. Despite his aspirations for a contract extension, Cook emphasized that he will not give up on pursuing what he wants.
When asked if he trusted that this would happen in Buffalo, Cook replied: “I mean, however it happens, it will happen. Wherever it happens.” Cook, 25, is in the final year of his rookie contract and has publicly expressed his desire to get a new contract, even posting on Instagram and pinning “15 million [per] year.” If he receives a contract worth $15 million per year, it will tie him as the third-highest paid running back based on average annual value with Derrick Henry. Cook stated on Thursday that he has no regrets about his social media posts. The Bills have had conversations with Cook’s representation, but they have not been able to reach an agreement. General Manager Brandon Beane reiterated his appreciation for Cook on Wednesday and said his goal is always to “select, develop, and re-sign our own,” as the team did with three other members of Cook’s draft class this offseason. However, he stated that a deal must fit into the team’s overall plan and salary cap for this season and years to come.We have conversations. … I mean, I deserve what I want, what I need, and eventually it will happen.
James Cook
Cook missed the voluntary portion of the offseason work and then fully participated in the mandatory minicamp. The running back said it wasn’t a consideration to not show up or not participate in training camp. It’s my job. I have to participate so I don’t get fined and just go out here and show them that I’m ready to play and win what I have to get. He added that he owed it to no one but himself, his teammates, and his family to be on the field, “by participating, showing my teammates that I love the game and that I am willing to be here,” Cook said. Cook is the lead running back, but he’s part of a group that will get playing time. He was on the field for just over 45% of the offensive plays last year, with Ty Johnson often coming in on late plays and Ray Davis also getting opportunities. Cook said he wants to be more involved in the passing game and on third downs this season. His 2,638 career rushing yards are the most among players from the 2022 draft class. He’s coming off the best season of his career, including tying the franchise record for rushing touchdowns in a season (16).Sometimes you can’t agree or, sometimes, you try to make it fit. There are times when players have left here and we loved them very much. We just couldn’t make it work. But I can tell you that I hope that when we are here at next year’s training camp, James Cook is practicing and continues to represent the red, white and blue.
Brandon Beane
Field marshal and the fans; I mean, it’s a great organization and, I mean, they selected me. They selected me for a reason, I feel, and I’m willing to be here and spend the rest of my career here.
James Cook
