James Cook has been a key piece of the Buffalo Bills’ offense, delivering back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons and earning consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, speculation about his future with the team continues to grow.
However, the Bills‘ front office remains non-committal regarding a contract extension, leaving fans and analysts wondering what comes next for their lead running back.
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No urgency from Buffalo’s front office
Despite Cook’s strong performances, Bills general manager Brandon Beane has not provided any clear indication that a long-term deal is on the horizon. Speaking on the Fitz & Whit Podcast with former Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, Beane acknowledged that discussions have taken place but offered no assurance of an imminent agreement.
“We’ve definitely had dialogue with those guys [Cook and CB Christian Benford]. That’s probably as far as I would take it,” Beane said, suggesting that negotiations are ongoing but not a current priority.
Buffalo has already secured contract extensions for key players like wide receiver Khalil Shakir, linebacker Terrel Bernard, and defensive end Greg Rousseau this offseason. However, Cook’s future remains uncertain, raising questions about the Bills‘ willingness to commit significant cap space to the running back position.
History suggests a possible summer deal
While the lack of progress may seem concerning, Beane has reassured that negotiations could extend into the summer. In previous years, the Bills have finalized key extensions well after the start of the league year, a pattern that could repeat itself with Cook.
“Just because we don’t get an extension done now, or before the start of the league year, doesn’t mean we won’t in the league year, or you guys have seen us do them in the summer as well,” Beane explained during the NFL Combine.
With Cook reportedly seeking a contract exceeding $15 million annually, Buffalo will have to decide whether they are willing to make a significant financial commitment or risk losing one of their top offensive weapons in free agency next offseason. For now, the waiting game continues, leaving both Cook and the Bills at a crossroads.
