When the Buffalo Bills and James Cook were going through the contract saga this offseason, most knew how crucial it was to get No. 4 a new deal.
Back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons along with two Pro Bowls, Cook's importance to how the offense operates can't be understated.
And if you were under any doubt as to what he can do for Joe Brady's unit, look no further than his game against the New York Jets, as he rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns from 21 carries.
With Josh Allen not having the best of days throwing the football, the offense leaned on Cook, and No. 17 came away from the game with one overriding thought on James' performance.
"He's an absolute stud,β Allen said. βHe makes us a better team, and throughout the entire training camp and OTA portion, we understood that. We knew that. I'm just very proud of how he handled everything this offseason and didn't let it become a distraction because he's looking as good as he ever has. So, very happy for him, one of my favorite teammates I've ever had.β
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Cook proves worth in Jets mauling
Being paid $12 million APY, Cook needs to be highly productive to justify that sort of money, and while his previous history suggests it was worth it, the NFL is a "what have you done for me lately" league.
And what Cook has done lately is prove to general manager Brandon Beane that he was right to fork out $48 million over four years to retain Cook's services, because when he is rolling as he was at MetLife, this Bills team takes on a whole other identity and one that teams will fear come January.
Allen stated Cook is an "absolute stud," and it's hard not to agree after seeing how Cook brutally beat down the Jets.
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