Bills head coach Sean McDermott revealed that running back James Cook was present and suited up for the recent game but chose not to participate on the field because of ongoing contract disagreements. This decision stems directly from Cook’s unsettled contract situation, which remains unresolved as the team continues its season.
McDermott Describes Discussions and Team’s Perspective
McDermott explained that he and Cook had a productive conversation the day before the game, during which Cook agreed to warm up but made it clear he would not play.
“James and I had a good conversation yesterday,”
McDermott said.
“We talked about warming up. He agreed to warm up but not play due to his situation right now. That’s where we’re at. So no change, really, overall.”
The coach expressed a desire to see Cook gain playing time but emphasized respect for the player’s stance.
“No, we wanted him to play,”
McDermott stated.
“I wanted him to play, but I don’t really want to go into it any further. There’s really no change at this point and time from what it was going into this weekend and the game today. He warmed up, like I said, but at this point, due to his situation and the position he’s in, was not willing to play. So that’s where we’re at. Again, it was a good conversation, but really no change overall.”
Fellow Teammate Comments on Contract Approaches
Cornerback Christian Benford shared his views on managing contract challenges, indicating he would handle things differently than Cook has. Benford stated,
“If I was in that position, it’d probably be the same as how I’m doing now — you know what I’m saying? — working my butt off,”
adding,
“I’m challenging myself to the wit’s end, whether I got the money or not, whether they gave me the extension or not. I’m still going to challenge myself and give my all to the wit’s end.”
Patriots’ Offseason Moves and Evaluations
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots traded quarterback Joe Milton to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fifth-round pick, along with a 2025 seventh-round pick heading to Dallas. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel commented on this decision during a radio interview, describing it as a standard coaching choice.
“Just another coach’s decision. Felt like this is what was best for our team. Trying to do what’s best for the team,”
Vrabel said on The Greg Cook Show.
Patriots’ Coaching Staff Praises Player Development
Patriots wide receivers coach Todd Downing spoke positively about the progress of wide receiver Kayshon Boutte during training camp. Downing noted,
“Really impressed, proud of, happy for the way he’s approached his training camp. He’s another player that, in the offseason, was kind of figuring a couple things out about this offense, decided to make a commitment to doing things the right way and the way that we know to be the winning formula, and I think you’ve seen the results of that with his play and production.”
He added,
“Really, really pleased and happy with the way that he’s been able to handle different roles, being moved around a little bit. He’s put in extra time, and I think it’s showing, and it’s something that he’s being rewarded with.”
Vrabel on Leadership Expectations for Young QBs
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel also addressed rookie quarterback Drake Maye’s mistake during the preseason opener. Despite a costly fumble, Vrabel emphasized the importance of leadership and resilience.
“The expectation is that he’s leading this football team,”
Vrabel said.
“That’s what the job of the head coach and the quarterback is. That’s pretty much how this thing goes. And that he can’t take days off. I mean, sometimes the performance isn’t going to be extraordinary, but the leadership and the demeanor has to be. And I think he’s learning that. I love the fact that he’s willing to learn and push and try to do those things to where he’s demanding of everybody and making sure that everybody’s on the same page.”
Future Impact of Cook’s Contract Dispute on the Bills
James Cook’s refusal to play amid his contract dispute highlights ongoing tensions between player contract negotiations and team performance goals. Although Cook continues to prepare with the team, his decision not to participate affects the Bills’ offensive options and game strategy. How this standoff will evolve may influence the team’s dynamics and Cook’s role moving forward, with both sides likely to continue negotiations in hopes of reaching a resolution that satisfies player expectations and team requirements.