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Broncos Trade Pitch Nets Bills Pro-Bowl Running Back

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Apr 1, 2025 10:03 AM ET

After adding Evan Engram in free agency, the Denver Broncos shift their attention to the wide receiver and running back positions. This trade pitch has the Broncos calling up the Buffalo Bills to add to their running back room.

In this trade pitch, the Broncos swing a deal for Pro-Bowl running back James Cook from the Bills. Cook is just 25 years old and entering his fourth NFL season. The cost would likely be a day-three selection in the NFL Draft, as the trade value of running backs isn't very high.

He's looking for a contract extension, and according to a report from Pro Football Talk, the Bills aren't going to extend cook "anytime soon." This could open the door to a potential trade, and with the Broncos in the market for a running back, they are a potential suitor.

A huge factor in why this move could work for Denver is due to Bo Nix. He's on a rookie contract, which leaves a significant amount of money available to add players. Denver could spend some money on a Pro-Bowl running back due to Nix not taking up a large portion of the cap space.

Since becoming the Bills full-time starter in 2023, Cook has ran for at least 1,000 yards, and in 2024, Cook had 16 rushing touchdowns, which led the NFL. Cook is also a valuable receiver, hauling in 76 receptions for 703 yards in 2023 and 2024.

Cook was Pro Football Focus's 10th-highest-graded running back in the NFL for 2024. In comparison, the Broncos' highest-graded running back was Jaleel McLaughlin, ranked 37th.

For the Broncos, Cook would be an immediate upgrade, and give Nix a quality starting back to develop with. The Broncos have such a great offensive line, it makes sense to add a dynamic running back behind it.

Cook is young, and likely to be on the market if the contract extension talks between him and the Bills continue to stall. Denver is in the market for a running back, and James Cook might be the best option that could be available.

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

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