The Buffalo Bills have been one of the busiest teams this offseason, addressing multiple roster needs while securing key players like Josh Allen and Christian Benford with long-term extensions. However, one player who was eligible for an extension—and vocal about it—was running back James Cook. The team has since confirmed that Cook will not be receiving an extension this offseason.
“I don’t see us getting something done anytime soon. We’re onto the draft. Just because we don’t get something done this year doesn’t mean we can’t get something done before he’s a free agent,” said Bills general manager Brandon Beane.
Cook had publicly expressed his contract demands, seeking $15 million per year—a figure that would make him the NFL’s third-highest-paid running back, trailing only Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey. His production speaks for itself, having rushed for over 1,000 yards in two of his three NFL seasons and earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections. In 2024, he ran for 1,009 yards and led the league with 16 rushing touchdowns.
Earlier in the offseason, Cook took to Instagram Live to announce his $15 million price tag. He later scrubbed his Instagram account and unfollowed the Bills’ official page, signaling his frustration. Appearing on NightCap with Shannon Sharpe and Ochocinco, he reiterated his contract stance but also reflected on the perception of his actions.
“I don’t want to feel like a cancer, at all. I don’t like all that attention—that’s not me, honestly. I’m just standing on business… what I deserve. I just want what I deserve. What I asked for,” Cook told Sharpe.
Despite his talent, it would be difficult for Buffalo to justify making Cook the third-highest-paid running back, especially after a season in which he didn’t crack the top 10 in rushing yards. As he enters his fourth NFL season, Cook remains the Bills’ lead back, with the team still aiming to finally break through in the AFC Championship.