Buffalo Bills running back James Cook watched his fellow teammates reach new extensions with the organization all offseason. In many ways, some of the players that were extended had not even put forth the kind of production the Georgia product has in the past few years.
Cook led the league in rushing touchdowns last season, and has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in back-to-back years.
But as he looks for a new deal, and grows frustrated over the lack of progress, the Bills' running back is entering a contract year under massive pressure. Cook plays a position of lesser value compared to others around the league.
With a short shelf-life for runners, the former second-round is under tremendous pressure to not only produce in 2025, but to stay healthy as well.
That's at least what PFF contributor Ryan Smith is arguing at this point.
"Cook is coming off a strong year in Buffalo, earning an 86.2 PFF overall grade and tying for the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns," Smith said. "He set career highs in yards after contact per attempt (3.24) and forced missed tackles (47) while taking care of the ball, fumbling just once across 260 attempts."
Outside of the reigning MVP in Josh Allen, the Bills have relied on Cook to be their best offensive weapon. He's more than lived up to that challenge at this point as well.
If Cook can produce at a high level, the organization could be willing to agree to his demands. … though $15 million APY is a steep price.
At the very least, he could get the deal he's been looking for on the open market.
