All eyes were on Buffalo Bills running back James Cook and whether he would attend mandatory minicamp with his contract situation still dragging on.
Some thought he would be absent, but James surprised everyone and not only attended, but also was a full participant in practice as he looks to get his feet under him this offseason, having been absent from OTAs.
Naturally, Bills Mafia were happy that Cook was on the field, and so too was his quarterback, Josh Allen.
“I'm very proud that he's here and he's working as hard as he is, being on the field with us,” Allen said. “I know a lot of guys that wouldn't do that, but he's out there and working hard and showing everybody that he's here for the right reasons. Hopefully that can get solved, I love Jimbo, I think the whole team does, he's one of the best backs in the league, hopefully that can be reflected soon. Just props for him to be here and show up and show out like that. So very proud that he's here.”
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook and quarterback Josh Allen
Gregory Fisher/USA TODAY Sports
So Cook is parking the business side of the NFL and is focusing on football, and yes, it is only minicamp, but it might hint at some good progression on an extension down the line.
Either that, or as Cook said in response to why he was at minicamp, "I like my money," which gives us Marshawn Lynch "I'm just here so I don't get fined" vibes.
Nevertheless, James at minicamp feels like a small win for the Bills and keeps their Super Bowl hopes on the straight and narrow.
Now, all eyes will turn to training camp to see if this good faith continues.