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Bills And James Cook Relationship 'Not Great' Amid Contract Saga

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Apr 4, 2025 5:45 PM ET

If you are a Buffalo Bills fan, one of the biggest storylines this offseason has been the contract situation with running back James Cook.

After making it clear that he would like a new contract that would make him one of the highest-paid backs in football (roughly $15 million APY), Cook has seen a host of other Bills players in Josh Allen, Khalil Shakir, Greg Rousseau, Terrel Bernard, and Christian Benford all get extensions.

Now it is being reported that Cook had put his Buffalo house up for sale, so make of that what you will. Additionally, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, who was a guest on the Pat McAfee Show, gave an update on the situation with Cook and Buffalo.

"It's not great," Rapoport said. "I would not describe it as great right now, he will play for the Bills next year. I know the negotiations didn't go great, I do know he's a player the Bills would like to have in their future, but as of right now, this is not in the greatest place."

That isn't ideal.

Cook, after again rushing for over 1,000 yards for the second consecutive season, plus with 16 rushing touchdowns in the regular season and another three in the playoffs, will be playing on the final year of his rookie contract in 2025. It is clear he doesn't want that.

General manager Brandon Beane stated at the annual league meeting that just because Cook doesn't have a contract now, it doesn't mean he won't next offseason, so there is wiggle room.

But right now, things don't seem to be rosy between player and organization, and it will be interesting to see how Cook plays minicamp and training camp as some players hold out to get a new contract.

Either way, if you were hoping for a swift resolution to Cook's future in Buffalo, don't hold your breath.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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