Buffalo Bills running back veteran star won’t be getting a contract extension anytime soon—and he may already be eyeing his exit.
Cook has been vocal about wanting a new deal, reportedly seeking $15 million per year, a figure that would place him among the NFL’s highest-paid running backs. However, Bills general manager Brandon Beane shut down that possibility this week, stating that no progress has been made toward an extension. In response, Cook may now be sending a message of his own to the team.
James Cook Pulling Up Roots in Buffalo
According to WIVB-4 in Buffalo, James Cook has put his Buffalo-area home up for sale, potentially signaling preparations for his eventual departure.
The report noted that Cook’s Orchard Park residence was recently listed, complete with photos of game balls and framed jerseys. Property records show the home was purchased in 2022 by a Minnesota LLC owned by his brother, former Vikings star Dalvin Cook.
While there’s no immediate indication that Cook is leaving, the move could be a sign that he’s planning for life after Buffalo once his contract expires at the end of the season.
“The photos suggest Cook isn’t ready to move out immediately,” the report stated. “Perhaps he’s just looking for more space or a different color scheme. But as it stands, Cook could be playing for a different team in a different city 11 months from now. It makes sense for him to plan for that possibility—and to make sure the Bills see it too.”
Bills Signal No New Deal for James Cook
The Bills have handed out contract extensions to several key players this offseason, including cornerback Christian Benford, wide receiver Khalil Shakir, and defensive end Greg Rousseau. However, no progress has been made toward a deal for James Cook.
While general manager Brandon Beane expressed admiration for Cook, he made it clear that an extension isn’t on the horizon, instead challenging the running back to prove his worth in his contract year.
“I think Jimbo is a pro. I respect him and love him to death,” Beane told SI.com. “I’m sure he wants to show the value that he and his reps believe he has. ‘Hey, let me show you—if we’re not on the same page, I’ll go out and prove it again.’”
Beane added that while the team wants Cook to succeed and remain in Buffalo long-term, the current situation is just business.
“We’re rooting for him, and we’d love for James to continue being a Buffalo Bill well beyond this season. But we are where we are, and there’s no hard feelings from us.”
Cook is coming off a stellar 2024 season, where he led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns and recorded his second consecutive 1,000-yard campaign—the first Bills running back to do so since LeSean McCoy.
However, under Beane’s leadership, Buffalo has yet to give a second contract to any of its drafted running backs, previously trading Zack Moss and letting Devin Singletary walk in free agency.