Over the past eighteen months, the Buffalo Bills have significantly changed their offensive strategy by moving away from relying mainly on Josh Allen‘s passing abilities. Instead, they have prioritized a conservative style that highlights the rushing attack. Within this framework, James Cook has emerged as the most successful player, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat running back. Despite his exceptional contributions, the Bills and Cook have not yet finalized a new contract, leaving the situation unresolved as training camp approaches.
James Cook’s Rising Role and Impact Since Draft Day
Drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, James Cook began his career coming off the bench, managing 507 rushing yards and two touchdowns during his rookie season. However, in the following year, he stepped up as a key offensive weapon. During the 2023 season, Cook amassed over 1,100 rushing yards and contributed 445 receiving yards, along with six touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He elevated his performance further in 2024, sharing the Bills’ team lead with 16 rushing touchdowns and surpassing 1,000 rushing yards again, while adding 258 receiving yards. Cook’s excellence extended into the playoffs, where he recorded 272 yards and three touchdowns across three games, playing a crucial role in the Bills ranking fourth in PFSN’s Offense+ metric.
Contract Negotiations Ahead of Deepening Commitment
Despite Cook’s breakthrough and vital role in Buffalo’s offense, negotiations on his contract extension have stalled. Reports indicate optimism that an agreement may be reached before training camp begins, with veterans expected to report on July 22. This timing could allow both parties sufficient opportunity to finalize terms and focus on the upcoming season.
Evaluating James Cook’s Contract Expectations
Initially, Cook sought a contract extension worth approximately $15 million per year. However, after seeing Saquon Barkley secure a deal exceeding $20 million annually, Cook’s demands may have increased accordingly. Presently, Cook is set to earn $5.2 million under his current contract, significantly less than the projected salary for the Bills’ 2025 first-round draft pick, Ashton Jeanty. This disparity may influence Cook’s pursuit of a higher value contract to reflect his importance to the team and market standards for elite running backs.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is James Cook religious?
A. James Cook didn’t talk much about his Christian beliefs. However, he didn’t allow swearing on his ships. On Sundays, he expected his crew to wear clean clothes. Sometimes, he also held religious services for them.
Q. Did James Cook have a wife?
A. Elizabeth Cook, born as Elizabeth Batts on February 4, 1742, was married to Captain James Cook. She lived more than 50 years as his widow until her death on May 13, 1835.
Q. Was James Cook religious?
A. Captain James Cook, a famous English navigator and explorer, was baptized at the Anglican church in Marton-in-Cleveland in 1728. Although he was technically an Anglican, his religious involvement was minimal. Despite this, Cook was known for his strong moral character. He never used foul language and didn’t allow swearing on his ships.
Q. Was James Cook poor or rich?
A. James Cook was born in 1728 in Marton, a town in northeast England. His father was a daily laborer, and the family was poor. Cook and his siblings had a tough upbringing due to their financial situation. Fortunately, his father’s kind boss helped him go to the village school, where he learned to read and write.