Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has emerged as one of the NFL’s standout players, leading the league in rushing touchdowns last season and securing consecutive 1,000-yard rushing campaigns. However, his contract situation with the Buffalo Bills remains uncertain, as negotiations for a long-term extension have yet to reach an agreement.

This impasse has raised concerns that Cook might miss training camp next month if a deal is not finalized. Despite this challenge, the Bills maintain confidence in their depth at running back, relying on Ray Davis, the 2024 fourth-round pick, to step up if needed.

Ray Davis Gains Trust as Viable Backup Option

Ray Davis completed a promising rookie season with Buffalo and has impressed the coaching staff during offseason workouts. Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady emphasized that the team is comfortable with Davis potentially assuming a leading role in the backfield. Brady highlighted Davis’s dedication and his methodical approach to improving his skills by closely reviewing game tape and refining his understanding of the running back position.

“For a guy like Ray, who is as conscientious as it gets and wants to be a perfectionist, it’s been really good for him to kind of take a step back and kind of be able to evaluate how he played last year,”

Joe Brady said.

“Watch the tape and learn the running back position at a different level.”

Importance of Maintaining Both Players for Championship Ambitions

Although Davis has shown significant potential, Buffalo’s chances of being serious title contenders hinge on having James Cook on the field. The team envisions Cook and Davis as a formidable one-two punch to establish a dynamic rushing attack in the 2025 season. Relying on Davis as backup offers the Bills reassurance that they can manage Cook’s absence if a contract holdout occurs, but the ultimate goal remains to have both backs active and contributing.