Buffalo Bills running back James Cook will enter the 2025 season with something to prove if he doesn't get the new contract he desires.
Right now, it doesn't feel like the Bills and No. 4 will come to an agreement, simply due to the salary cap constraints, and if that is the case, James will need to play well to show not only Buffalo but other respective teams he is deserving of top-of-the-market money.
In three years, Cook has two Pro Bowls, two 1,000-yard seasons, and is coming off a 16-touchdown year in the regular season, which tied the franchise record.
Is that enough for Cook to be seen as a top back in football? For former running back Maurice Jones-Drew, in his latest rankings, James comes in at No. 11
"Cook scored 18 touchdowns last season, earning his second straight trip to the Pro Bowl and proving he's an essential part of the offense's success," Jones-Drew wrote. "The 25-year-old has been vocal about wanting a new contract entering the final year of his rookie deal, and negotiations are ongoing as we approach the start of training camp. There's a chance he could hold out if a deal isn't reached by Week 1, which obviously would hurt his production and spot in these rankings. Yet, I'm operating as if he'll be on the field."
Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) dives for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half in the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
(Denny Medley-Imagn Images)
There's no doubt that if Cook is on the field for the season's entirety, it feels like another 1,000-yard season is in the realm of possibility, so too, potentially double-digit touchdowns.
If that does come to fruition, the big extension he wants will be forthcoming, whether that be from Buffalo or elsewhere, and we also think he would then be higher positioned in these rankings for 2026.
But before we can get to his on-field production, there is a lot of water that has to go under this bridge with training camp on the horizon, and Cook's contract is still no closer to a resolution.
And that might be one thing that has the potential to derail Buffalo's Super Bowl bid.