Buffalo Bills running back James Cook finished last season with a career-best 16 rushing touchdowns, a milestone attributed largely to significant improvements in his physical strength. Bills RBs coach Kelly Skipper credited Cook’s increased strength as the key factor that allowed him to break more tackles and deliver a more physical running style throughout the year.
I thought the biggest thing to me was he improved his strength,
Skipper said, via Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.
He was able to break more tackles, run physical, so his whole game came together last year. He had a lot of success. … It’s good to have him back. … He has a contract issue and all that stuff going on. That’ll take care of itself. He just wanted to be around his teammates, and he’s happy to be here. I mean, to be able to play, he loves football. So, him being around his teammates was really good for him.
Plans to Expand James Cook’s Skill Set in 2025
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Skipper emphasized that Cook’s development will focus on becoming a more well-rounded running back, excelling not only as a rusher but also as a receiver and a pass protector. With various backs on the roster and multiple roles to fill, Cook’s growth in these areas will be a priority to maximize his contribution on the field.
The thing about it is we got a couple different backs, situations, different things that happen,
Skipper said.
The thing he’s got to concentrate is his whole game, the run and the pass. Being able to pass block because he can do it, you know what I mean? It’s just how many times and just being ready and don’t get caught off guard.
The Pursuit of Excellence Remains Paramount
Skipper further highlighted the importance of continual improvement for running backs, explaining that stagnation is not an option in the NFL. He noted Cook’s commitment to refining his conditioning and overall game as crucial to his success, especially when transitioning from individual training to the intensity of live plays during games.
The biggest thing is you can’t stay the same,
Skipper said.
You got to get better. I mean, you got to chase perfection, and so, that’s what he’s here, to work on his game and to be out here, do individual [drills], see what type of condition he is in. He’s been training, but it’s different when you get out here and you running plays. You run from play to play, so you got to get in the football shape. So, it’s good for him to get out here and get rolling.
Miami Dolphins Emphasize Culture Change After Tough 2024 Finish
Following a difficult conclusion to their 2024 campaign, the Miami Dolphins have focused on cultivating a stronger team culture ahead of the new season. Head coach Mike McDaniel discussed efforts to address issues openly and establish fundamental expectations related to accountability and preparedness within the organization.
I had a team meeting with guys. You can’t run away from things that need to be fixed,
McDaniel said, via Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
The football program has to focus on football. There are a lot of things that can’t dominate peoples’ time – being on time, being accountable to each other, [adhering] to runs.
Jets Tight End Jeremy Ruckert Reflects on Reuniting with Justin Fields
The New York Jets’ decision to name Justin Fields as their starting quarterback has reunited him with former Ohio State teammate Jeremy Ruckert. The tight end expressed excitement about playing alongside Fields again and praised the leadership and toughness Fields brings to the team.
It’s been great,
Ruckert said, via Brian Costello of the New York Post.
Anytime you get a chance to reconnect one of your former teammates, whether it’s an old league or in college, it’s great. I’m excited where we’re going as a team and, and, and the culture we’re setting. And I think he’s perfect for that, for that role. And just getting these last couple weeks to get back on the same page and get our timing right with all the guys. It’s been special to be a part of that, but also, you know, kind of get the other guys, get the other guys rolling and and continue to grow as a unit.
Ruckert also highlighted Fields’ mental toughness as a defining trait that positively influences the team’s outlook and resilience.
I think the biggest thing about him is his mental toughness, nothing’s going to rattle him,
Ruckert said.
He’s good for this team, this area. And he wants the pressure. He’s built for it. And just the attitude that he brings and, and the professionalism that he has, he’s shown it ever since we were in college. And then he’ll continue to do that and we’ll rally behind him.
Jeremy Ruckert Focused on Consistency and Growth
Looking ahead, Ruckert is concentrating on solidifying his role by being consistent in both the run and pass games while continuously improving his physical and technical skills year over year. His goal is to contribute to the team’s progress by bringing experience and leadership to the field.
I think that’s something I’ve been really focusing on just being the most consistent kind of player I can be, and doing whatever they need me to do, whether that’s in the run game, in the pass game, whatever it is, just continue to get bigger, stronger, faster. And every year you play, you get more experience and, and kind of use that experience to grow and get better. So mainly just take this, run with it and, and just be one of the guys that can bring these guys along.