James Cook and the Buffalo Bills have been at odds for a few months now with regard to an extension from his rookie contract. Following the latest development in this saga on Tuesday, it does not seem that the two sides are closing in on an agreement any time soon.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced that all players have reported to OTAs except Cook amid his battle for a contract extension. Despite the current rift, McDermott made clear that they are keeping a connection going with their No. 1 running back.
"Yeah, we're staying in touch, like you'd expect a player and a coach to do," McDermott said. "So, James will be here when he's ready to be here and we move forward."
Earlier this offseason, Cook demanded an extension paying out $15 per year. At the time, general manager Brandon Beane posited that such a deal would not be coming together any time soon though he expected Cook to be back by the start of the season.
Last season was the best of Cook's career to date, rushing for 1,009 yards on 207 carries and 16 touchdowns. This marked the second year in a row that he eclipsed 1,000 yards.
There is some level of understanding for Cook's dilemma here after watching several members of the 2022 draft class ink their own extensions including Khalil Shakir and Christian Benford.
Still some time away from that date, Cook has remained steadfast in his holdout. This stance has not cost him yet, but the Bills have a three-day mandatory minicamp beginning June 10. If he no-shows, he will be subject to fines. … at which time the decision on a “holdout” will feel even more official.
Again, there is no indication from the Bills side that a deal will be in place by that time.