The Buffalo Bills began their voluntary offseason program this week without one of their key offensive players in attendance. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Pro Bowl running back James Cook did not report to the start of team activities, as he enters the final year of his rookie contract and seeks a new deal.
Cook, who led the team in rushing last season with 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns, has emerged as a core component of Buffalo’s offense. In addition to his work on the ground, he added 32 receptions for 258 yards and two receiving touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat ability.
Now entering Year 4 of his rookie contract, Cook is eligible for an extension and appears ready to leverage his rising value. The former second-round pick out of Georgia has steadily increased his production each season, and 2024 marked his second-straight 1,000-yard campaign.
While the workouts are voluntary, a player’s absence—especially a featured back like Cook—is often a sign that contract negotiations may be approaching a critical stage. It remains unclear how far apart the two sides are in discussions, but the Bills will have to weigh the long-term value of retaining their lead rusher against their current cap flexibility.
Buffalo has leaned heavily on quarterback Josh Allen in recent seasons, and Cook’s breakout year helped add balance to the offense. With his absence now the first headline of the team’s offseason, all eyes will turn to whether general manager Brandon Beane makes the next move.
For now, the message is clear: James Cook wants to be paid like the player he’s become.
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