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Bills James Cook Predicted Fantasy Stars Suggest New Contract

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated May 3, 2025 11:02 PM ET

The offseason for the Buffalo Bills has been dominated by running back James Cook and his want for a new contract.

Set to want roughly $15 million APY, so far, the Bills don't appear to be all that keen to pay such a hefty price for their running back.

Granted, general manager Brandon Beane has stated that just because Cook doesn't have a new deal now, it doesn't mean he won't in 12 months.

So, what would Cook have to do in 2025 to make the Bills comfortable with giving him $15 million APY? Coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and a 16-touchdown year in 2024, could something similar be in order?

ESPN's Mike Clay, as he does every year, gives fantasy projections for what each player could do, and Cook's stat line is solid.

Cook's 2025 projection: 1,070 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns, 37 receptions, 282 yards, two touchdowns.

Is that enough?

That would be another good season from Cook, and likely mean a third-straight Pro Bowl as his form over the last three years, if Clay's projection comes to fruition, would mean James is one of the most consistent backs in football.

But the big question is, will the Bills see that as $15 million APY worthy? That will be a fascinating discussion.

Playing on the final year of his rookie deal, if Cook does produce as Clay thinks he will, we think that James will likely agree to terms with Buffalo and extend his stay.

But exactly what the money will look like is another thing entirely.

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

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