Why Are Bills Shutting Down Contract Talks With Star RB James Cook?

The Buffalo Bills have had one of the most active offseasons of any NFL team, plugging holes far and wide into their roster while inking key pieces such as Josh Allen and Christian Benford to longterm extensions.

One of the players who was extension eligible this offseason - and the loudest about it - is running back James Cook, who the team announced will not be getting an extension this offseason.

"I don't see us getting something done anytime soon. We're onto the draft. Just because we don't get something done this year doesn't mean we can't get something done before he's a free agent." said Bills' general manager Brandon Beane.

Cook had gone public about his demands, requesting $15 million per year, which would make him the third-highest paid running back behind Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey.

Cook's talent is undeniable, he has ran for over 1,000 yards in two of his three NFL seasons, being named to back-to-back Pro Bowls. Cook ran for 1,009 yards and an NFL-leading 16 touchdowns in 2024.

Cook took to Instagram to make his demands earlier in the offseason, stating his $15 million price tag on Instagram Live. Cook followed up the IG Live by scrubbing his Instagram account and unfollowing the Bills' team account.

Cook would later appear on "NightCap with Shannon Sharpe and Ochocinco," and reinforced his contract demands, but perhaps showing some regret for how his actions were interpreted.

"I don't want to feel like a cancer, at all. I don't like all that attention - that's not me, honestly. I'm just standing on business...what I deserve. I just want what I deserve. What I asked for." Cook told Sharpe.

In spite of his obvious talent, it would be hard for the Bills to justify making Cook the third highest paid running back in the NFL, especially coming off a season where he failed to make the top-10 in rushing yards.

Cook is entering his fourth NFL season, and still projects to be the top back for a Bills team that is hoping to finally get over the AFC Championship hump.