Before the Buffalo Bills faced the New York Giants in a recent preseason game, there was a noticeable shift in the situation involving running back James Cook Buffalo Bills contract negotiations. Cook, who has been sitting out practices this training camp as a hold-in strategy, appeared in full uniform and took part in warmup reps, signaling potential progress in contract discussions.
Cook’s Involvement During Warmups Catches Attention
According to Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic, Cook engaged in a full 11-on-11 drill with the Bills’ first-team offense before the game. Though his participation in actual game time remained uncertain, his presence in warmups was an important development during this preseason period.
“Bills RB James Cook is in full uniform for warmups. He sat out of the last four practices at training camp as part of a hold-in. This does not mean Cook plays, but, an intriguing sub-plot all the same,”
—Joe Buscaglia, Sports Reporter
“Bills RB James Cook went through a rep of 11-on-11 during warmups with the first-team offense.”
—Joe Buscaglia, Sports Reporter
Significance of James Cook’s Role and Contract Expectations
The 25-year-old running back has been instrumental to Buffalo’s offense, contributing 1,009 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns last season alone, in addition to two receiving touchdowns. His efforts played a key role in quarterback Josh Allen‘s first MVP award and the team’s return to the AFC Championship Game. Over three seasons, Cook has amassed 2,638 rushing yards, 20 rushing touchdowns, and seven receiving touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as a critical offensive asset.
Given his impact, Cook’s expected contract is reportedly in the $15 million per year range, reflecting the value he brings to the Bills’ offense. His return to practice could signal that contract talks are progressing, which is a positive sign for Buffalo’s roster stability moving forward.