Some thought the Buffalo Bills might reward one of their most productive running backs from last season with a lucrative contract extension after he tallied 18 total touchdowns in 2024.
Instead, the Bills did extend a running back — but it wasn’t the one most people anticipated.
Bills Re-Sign RB Ty Johnson
Many believe locking in a long-term contract with James Cook is a top priority for the Bills this offseason, but that didn’t stop Buffalo’s front office from ensuring another key backfield contributor returns for 2025.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, running back Ty Johnson has agreed to a new multi-year contract with the Bills, keeping him with the team through the 2026 season.
Fowler wrote on X, “Running back Ty Johnson is returning to the #Bills on a two-year deal, per source. Johnson emerged as a versatile third-down back for Buffalo, now gets rewarded.”
Johnson, who has spent time with both the Jets and Lions during his career, carved out a valuable role in Buffalo’s offense last season. Despite limited touches, he scored four touchdowns on just 59 touches, while averaging 5.2 yards per carry and 15.7 yards per reception as a complement to Cook in the Bills’ backfield.
Primarily used in passing situations in 2024, Johnson capitalized on his chances, especially when Cook and Ray Davis were off the field.
Johnson’s best season prior to last year came in 2021 with the Jets, when he posted 238 rushing yards and 372 receiving yards, scoring four touchdowns—the only other time he’s reached that mark in a single season.
What Does This Deal Mean for James Cook?
Johnson’s new deal was a modest one for the Bills, reportedly worth $5 million over two years. It’s unlikely this contract will spark much concern among Bills Mafia regarding Cook’s chances of securing an extension in the near future.
Still, Buffalo has been busy re-signing or restructuring other key contracts this offseason.
The headline move was giving Josh Allen a massive six-year extension worth up to $330 million, with an eye-popping $250 million guaranteed. As the reigning league MVP and the team’s franchise quarterback, the move was a no-brainer.
The Bills also locked up several other core players, including top pass rusher Gregory Rousseau, leading receiver Khalil Shakir, and linebacker Terrel Bernard. However, these deals may leave Cook feeling somewhat overlooked for now.
Cook was a major contributor during both the regular season and playoffs. He racked up 1,267 total yards on 239 touches, averaging an impressive 6.7 yards per touch during the 2024 campaign.
He took his game to another level in the postseason, rushing for 272 yards and three touchdowns on 53 carries over three playoff games, while adding six catches for 64 yards.
Given his production, one could argue Cook is the second most valuable offensive player behind Allen, making his contract situation something to closely watch heading into the 2025 season.