The Buffalo Bills are facing uncertainty as running back James Cook enters the final year of his rookie contract without a new deal in place. As talks stall, the team is turning its attention toward potential replacements, with Penn State’s Nicholas Singleton emerging as a realistic target for the 2026 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL Draft.
James Cook’s Contract Discussions Reach a Standstill
James Cook’s contract negotiation has become a pivotal storyline during the 2025 NFL offseason. The running back, who is entering the last year of his rookie deal, publicly expressed his desire for $15 million per season. This figure is notably high in a league where teams generally prefer more affordable running back deals, especially when they already have multiple long-term contracts committed elsewhere.
The Bills have not indicated any progress toward agreeing on a contract, leaving Cook’s future with the team uncertain. Although Buffalo still retains Cook’s rights through the 2025 season, his status for 2026 remains in question, which may push the team to explore alternatives if a deal is not reached before free agency begins next winter.
Buffalo Considers High Draft Pick for Running Back Role
With limited roster needs beyond running back, Buffalo could use an early draft pick to address the position if Cook departs. NFL analyst Tarringo Basile-Vaughan recommends closely monitoring Penn State’s Nicholas Singleton, who could fill the Bills’ running back spot either as a replacement or as a complementary player alongside Josh Allen.
“If James Cook doesn’t get what he wants as far as a new contract, the Bills may be in the market for a new starting running back once the 2025 NFL season comes to an end. Even if Cook does get a deal, the Bills may be smart to add another workhorse back to the mix. That’s where Penn State’s Nicholas Singleton could be a good fit as a potential late first-round, Day 2 fit,”
Basile-Vaughan wrote.
Singleton, standing 6-foot and weighing 224 pounds, has demonstrated explosive speed and agility. His sharp cuts combined with sudden acceleration create opportunities for big plays whenever he carries the ball.
“As a junior, Singleton rushed for 1,099 yards on 172 carries with Penn State. This was highlighted by a 58-yard touchdown run to seal a Fiesta Bowl victory for the Nittany Lions. At 6-foot-0, 224 pounds, Singleton displays great burst and outstanding speed. His ability to make sudden cuts while accelerating makes him a big play waiting to happen whenever he touches the ball. As either a replacement for Cook or a running back brought in to form a two-headed monster in the Bills’ backfield behind Allen, Singleton is a prospect worth watching for the Bills.”
—Tarringo Basile-Vaughan, NFL Analyst
Singleton’s Pursuit of a National Championship Motivates Return
Throughout 41 games at Penn State, Nicholas Singleton has gained 2,912 rushing yards and scored 32 touchdowns. Rather than entering the NFL Draft in the previous spring, Singleton chose to return to college to pursue a national championship, joining a trend among top prospects in recent years who prioritize winning titles at their programs.
Programs such as Michigan and Ohio State have seen several elite draft-eligible players delay their pro careers to compete for championships, and now Singleton carries that ambition for Penn State in the upcoming college football season.
Significance of Draft Strategy Amid Contract Uncertainty
The Bills’ approach to resolving James Cook’s contract situation will have a significant impact on their roster and draft strategy for 2026. If Cook and the team fail to find common ground, Buffalo will likely invest a high draft pick in a running back to maintain strength in the backfield. Nicholas Singleton’s skill set and college production position him as a promising candidate to take on that role.
Whether the Bills ultimately retain Cook or bring in new talent like Singleton, their running back decisions will shape the team’s offensive balance moving forward alongside quarterback Josh Allen. The coming months of contract talks and college evaluations will provide clearer direction for Buffalo’s plans as they prepare for the next NFL season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast is James Cook?
A. James Cook ran at a top speed of 21.85 mph during his 65-yard touchdown run. This was the 7th-fastest play by any ball carrier this season. It was also the fastest speed Cook has ever reached in his career.
Q. Is James Cook religious?
A. James Cook didn’t share his Christian beliefs openly but didn’t allow swearing on his ships. He insisted that his crew wear clean clothes on Sundays, and sometimes he led religious services for them.
Q. What is James Cook 40 time?
A. James Cook University holds the 416th spot among the Best Global Universities. These rankings are based on how well schools meet various recognized standards of quality.
Q. Was James Cook religious?
A. Cook was not religious. As an apprentice, he lived with the Walker family and followed their Quaker beliefs and customs. Spending time with the Walker family and their children, who were about his age, influenced Cook to develop a character aligned with Quaker values.