Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has secured a four-year contract extension valued at $48 million, locking him in with the team through the 2029 season. The holdout extended for over a week, causing Cook to miss the preseason opener, as he prioritized protecting his health before committing to the new deal.
Not more so it would help. Just trying to protect myself,
Cook said, via Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.
Just trying to stay healthy and just get everything done before I can go out there and play with a clear mindset and just be locked in.
—James Cook, Bills Running Back
Practice Participation Key to Resuming Contract Talks
Cook resumed practice on Tuesday, which proved crucial for advancing negotiations before the contract was signed the following day. Buffalo Bills General Manager Brandon Beane emphasized there was a mutual understanding that Cook needed to return to practice to reopen discussions and finalize the extension.
I think we had an understanding that we need to practice if we’re gonna be able to get back to the table,
Beane said.
And so I think there was good faith on both parts from him and his agent to our side, and once we got him back on the practice field, we really worked hard.
—Brandon Beane, Buffalo Bills GM
Cook’s agent, Zac Hiller, expressed strong loyalty to the team throughout the process, highlighting the player’s commitment.
James could only envision himself as a Buffalo Bill,
Hiller said.
We are extremely thankful to the entire Bills organization and glad we could make that happen.
—Zac Hiller, Agent
Additional Injury Updates and Team News Ahead of the Season
Buffalo Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott provided updates on key players as the team prepares for the regular season. Kicker Tyler Bass is reportedly progressing from a pelvic injury and is expected to avoid setbacks. Offensive tackle Dion Dawkins returned as a full participant in joint practice sessions against the Chicago Bears.
- RB Darrynton Evans sustained a hamstring injury during practice.
- Defensive back Te’Cory Couch also suffered a hamstring injury during joint drills with the Bears.
Comments from Opposing Teams and Other Notable Performances
Following joint practices with the Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions linebacker Grant Stuard questioned the intensity of Miami’s workouts, casting doubt on their practice methods. Miami head coach Mike McDaniel dismissed Stuard’s remarks as inconsequential.
“Literally does not affect me whatsoever,”
McDaniel said, via ProFootballTalk.
“I hope we get the absolute best practice from Grant and everybody else between the whistles. That makes us better. I think there’s a lot of noise and I would file that into the noise category.”
Meanwhile, Patriots undrafted wide receiver Efton Chism impressed during New England’s preseason victory over the Washington Commanders, recording six catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. QB Josh Dobbs praised Chism’s fit within the offensive scheme and his effectiveness in critical moments.
He’s a QB-friendly target in the red zone or on third down. He gets a lot of good matchups, and he wins those matchups, which is most important.
—Josh Dobbs, New England QB
Implications of Cook’s Extension and Upcoming Season Outlook
James Cook’s new deal reflects the Bills’ confidence in his potential to be a key offensive contributor moving forward. His determination to protect his health before finalizing the contract underscores the competitive intensity of the NFL and highlights the importance of player well-being in contract negotiations.
With Cook back on the field and key teammates progressing in health, the Bills appear better positioned as they approach the regular season. Continued recovery for injured players like Tyler Bass and Dion Dawkins will be critical to the team’s success.