As the Bills begin day one of mandatory minicamp, head coach Sean McDermott confirmed an integral member of their backfield is in attendance for practice.
RB James Cook, who had yet to be present so far this offseason, is in the building and participated in Tuesday's minicamp.
"I really appreciate him being here," McDermott said. "I credit James. Business is business at the end of the day. I know (James) loves being around this team and the guys in the locker room, and he loves to play football. So, respect his decision to be here and be amongst the team and get some work in today, and we're looking forward to that."
After a career-high season in which he tied for the league-lead in rushing touchdowns, Cook took to social media early in the offseason expressing his desire for a new contract with Buffalo. Though the two sides were unable to come to an agreement ahead of minicamp, the 2024 Pro Bowler spoke after Tuesday's practice and affirmed his commitment to the team.
"Everything is a business, so no hard feelings," he said. "Everything gonna work how it's opposed to work."
Players under contract are subject to fines for unexcused minicamp absences. Cook avoided fines simply by showing up to One Bills Drive; he did not have to participate in practice but said he chose to because he's one of the leaders on the team.