After being in several headlines this offseason, top trade candidate James Cook could become available soon before the 2025 regular season. According to reports, to no one’s surprise, the running back isn’t participating in OTAs amid his contract status as he’s been waiting for a new deal after putting on three years’ worth of productive seasons. Originally selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Georgia product quickly became an elite runner for Josh Allen’s offense, earning two Pro Bowls early in his career. The running back could sit for a contract, and that shouldn’t come as a surprise since Cook has proved that he is a long-term contributor for this season.
Cook floated the idea of a $15 million annual salary, but the biggest question is if the Bills will meet his asking price. After giving Allen a blockbuster contract, it’s hard to dish out more money to another athlete who has high demands. The running back is entering the final year of his contract, so it’s no surprise he would rather receive a payday before he steps out on the field for the 2025 campaign. It seems difficult for the Bills to move on at the same time as the running back blossomed as a reliable offensive piece, especially for an offense that has yet to find a true WR1 in the passing unit.
However, a trade isn’t entirely out of the question. It shouldn’t be surprising if the Bills make Cook available for a possible trade this offseason. It will be something to watch, but many should probably see if these two teams could make an offer that the Bills can’t turn down, even if these are AFC teams.
Bills James Cook Contract
Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) against the Kansas City Chiefs during the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Report: Top NFL Trade Candidate James Cook Could Be Available Soon Amid Contract Holdout – Chargers, Commanders Top Fits
Completing Harbaugh’s Run Game
The Buffalo Bills will never send James Cook to their AFC rival, but the fit is there, and it’s not easy to ignore. Despite signing Najee Harris this free agency to start over at the running back department, they went and got Omarion Hampton in the draft. It looks like it will be an experimental year for the Chargers as far as the running backs, but time might be ticking, and Jim Harbaugh may prefer an immediate answer sooner rather than later. It’s fair to predict that Harris could truly only last just one season with the Chargers since they see their future in Hampton.
However, no one should expect him to perform full-time duties since he will be adjusting only to the league and the playbook. Cook could easily solve the issues for the Chargers’ run game as a well-rounded backfield piece. While they have issues in their wide receiver unit, they could make up for it by having a true element difference maker like Cook to motivate this offense.
Future Super Bowl Contenders?
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders have a few weak points to solve in their offense to be a true Super Bowl contender. Last season, quarterback Jayden Daniels and head coach Dan Quinn changed the culture forever for years to come. If they can stay with the same mojo this upcoming season, they might as well try hard to get James Cook. While Brian Robinson Jr. hasn’t given the Commanders a reason why he can’t start, Robinson might not be their long-term answer.
Cook could turn this team from great to probably the best NFL team, paired with top receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, alongside veteran tight end Zach Ertz.