James Cook Seeks Contract Extension with the Bills
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has fully participated in the first two days of the team’s training camp, while awaiting a contract extension, although he emphasized that he will not give up on his aspirations.When asked if he trusts this will happen in Buffalo, Cook replied: “However it happens, it will be done.” Cook, 25, is in the final year of his rookie contract and has publicly expressed his desire to get a new deal, even posting on Instagram and pinning “15 million [per] year.” If he were to receive a contract for $15 million annually, it would make him the third highest-paid running back, tied with Derrick Henry, in terms of average annual value. Cook stated that he does not regret his social media posts. The Bills have held conversations with Cook’s representation, but have not been able to reach an agreement. General Manager Brandon Beane reiterated his appreciation for Cook and noted that his goal is always to “recruit, develop, and re-sign our own,” as the team did with three other members of Cook’s draft class this offseason. However, he added that a deal must fit into the overall plan and the team’s salary cap for this year and the following ones.“We have conversations. I deserve what I want, what I need, and it will eventually happen,” Cook affirmed.
James Cook
Cook missed the voluntary part of the preseason work and then fully participated in the mandatory minicamp. The running back said he didn’t consider not showing up or participating in the team’s training camp.“Sometimes you can’t come to an agreement or sometimes you try to make things fit. There were times when players left because we really wanted them. We just couldn’t make it work. But I can tell you that I have hope, when we are here at training camp next year, James Cook will be practicing and still representing the red, white, and blue,” Beane commented.
Brandon Beane
He added that he owed nothing to anyone but himself, his teammates, and his family for being 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 Bills’ primary running back, but he is part of a group that shares playing time. He was on the field for just over 45% of offensive plays last year, with Ty Johnson often coming in on the final downs and Ray Davis also getting opportunities. Cook expressed his desire 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. Cook is coming off the best season of his career, including tying a franchise record for rushing touchdowns in a season last year (16).“It’s my job. I have to participate so I don’t get fined and just come out here and show them I’m ready to play and earn what I have to earn,” Cook said.
James Cook
“The quarterback and the fans. It’s a great organization and they drafted me. I feel like they drafted me for a reason and I’m willing to be here and spend the rest of my career here,” Cook stated about why he wants to stay in Buffalo.
James Cook
