Buffalo Bills Running Back James Cook is not shy about what he wants his contract extension to be. The running back wants $15 million per year this offseason. Cook is entering the final year of the rookie contract he signed with the Buffalo Bills following his second round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. He is due to make $5.19 million for the 2025 season on his current deal.
Cook’s $15 million/year wish would make him the second-highest-paid running back in the league behind only Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers. It would pay him more per season than Philadelphia Eagles Running Back Saquon Barkley and Indianapolis Colts Running Back Jonathan Taylor.
Cook is coming off a solid season with the Buffalo Bills. He had 207 carries, 1,009 rushing yards, and tied for the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns. It was his second consecutive season with 1,000+ rushing yards. He also finished top 10 with 4.9 YPC. Will Cook get the contract extension he desires this offseason?
Buffalo Bills Season Summary
The Buffalo Bills had a strong regular season. Cook’s performance was a big part of that. Cook also benefitted from MVP Quarterback Josh Allen being one of the most feared rushing threats in the National Football League. Buffalo had the ninth-best ground game during the regular season.
Cook also had a strong postseason. He finished second in playoff rushing yards with 272. Only Barkley had more rushing yards during the postseason than Cook. The Bills running back had a great AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs. He rushed for 85 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Final Thoughts
The Buffalo Bills have a few options this season when it comes to Cook’s contract. They can let him play out the final year of his contract, franchise tag him, or give him the $15 million/year contract extension he craves. It could be a messy offseason for Cook and the Buffalo Bills as the Pro Bowl running back reportedly unfollowed the team on social media and removed all of his Bills posts.
