James Cook was one of the best running backs in the NFL last season, reaching the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year. On 207 carries, he ran for 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns, while adding 258 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 32 receptions.
The Buffalo Bills star tied with Derrick Henry and Jahmyr Gibbs for the most rushing touchdowns in the league despite playing one less game. His strong season behind 2024 NFL MVP Josh Allen helped lead the Bills to a 13-4 record as they ranked second in scoring offense, 10th in total yards, ninth in rushing yards, and first in rushing touchdowns.
Buffalo’s offensive unit ranked fourth in the league, according to PFSN’s Offense+ metric. After playing a key role in their success, Cook, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, is reportedly seeking a new contract. While he hasn’t explicitly stated that he will hold out, he has not ruled out the possibility either. An NFL insider recently suggested that the running back is playing a risky game.
James Cook Could Be Taking a Risk Without New Deal
Cook has been a key member of the Bills’ offensive attack. The second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft has reportedly been disconnected from the organization as he seeks a new deal. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated recently shared why playing out his rookie contract could be a massive risk for the two-time Pro Bowler, writing:
“The James Cook situation is pretty complicated—and whether he shows up for the Bills’ minicamp will be interesting. Regardless of whether he does or doesn’t, I’d hope Cook goes back to the table and something gets worked out. Money at that position is too fickle, and, as such, I think going into the season without a deal would be really risky for the 25-year-old.”
Sleeper Bills shared an update from NFL insider Adam Schefter that suggested a deal may not be done soon, tweeting:
“Adam Schefter on the James Cook situation 👇 #BillsMafia ‘He has basically disconnected himself from the organization and the city put his house up for sale.’ ‘I don’t think we’ll be seeing him in Buffalo anytime soon.’”
Adam Schefter on the James Cook situation 👇 #BillsMafia
“He has basically disconnected himself from the organization and the city put his house up for sale.”
“I don’t think we’ll be seeing him in Buffalo anytime soon.” pic.twitter.com/zWfy96JVr0
— SleeperBills (@SleeperBills) June 7, 2025
Cook is set to earn north of $5 million in the final year of his rookie contract. It is unclear what he is seeking in a new deal; however, if he does hold out, Ray Davis will likely assume the lead back role.