All offseason long, the Buffalo Bills have had a contract situation brewing with running back James Cook.
He wants a new deal. So far, the Bills have not been willing to pay him what he wants to receive. That has led to Cook not participating in team practice to begin training camp.
Cook does deserve a pay raise. During the 2024 NFL season, he was a huge part of Buffalo's offensive breakout. However, it's clear that the team doesn't want to pay the kind of money he's currently demanding.
Despite the contract situation dragging on, there is still hope from both sides that a deal can be reached. It will take some compromise, but neither side has closed the door on the other.
With that being said, a major new update has been shared by Cook's agent.
Speaking to The Athletic, Cook's agent, Zac Hiller, spoke out with a bold statement. He made it clear that his client wants to remain with the Bills moving forward.
"James Cook only wants to be a Buffalo Bill," Hiller said. "This isn't some $200M Micah Parsons-Jerry Jones negotiation. We're hopeful there's a resolution soon, and we'll keep working toward that every day."
That should give fans even more hope. Cook may not be practicing, but he's working to get something done with Buffalo. This news also increases the chances of a potential deal getting done.
Last season with the Bills, Cook played in 16 regular season games. He carried the football 207 times for 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging a good 4.9 yards per carry. Cook also caught 32 passes for 258 yards and two scores out of the backfield.
At just 25 years old, he could be a long-term key factor in the Buffalo offense. For that to happen, the front office will need to cut him a handsome check.
Only time will tell whether or not the two sides can get a deal across the finish line. Cook clearly wants to keep playing for the Bills, but he rightfully wants a new contract. It will be interesting to see what happens as the two sides continue working on an agreement.
In the meantime, Buffalo is set to begin its preseason schedule on Saturday afternoon against the New York Giants.
For more on the Buffalo Bills and general NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
Related Articles
2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.