Could Bills Have James Cook Replacement Already On Roster?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jun 22, 2025 9:36 PM ET

The Buffalo Bills' offseason has been positive, but one thing has stopped it from being one of the best, and that is the contract saga of James Cook.

Wanting a new contract at roughly $15 million APY, there has yet to be any significant movement on the deal, and some think it might be coming next offseason.

But the good thing, if you want to look at it like that, is the Bills have a couple of backs, who, if Cook holds out, might be able to carry the load - Ty Johnson and Ray Davis.

And offensive coordinator Joe Brady has liked what he's seen from second-year back Davis this offseason.

"Ray just being having the offseason to go through it has been really good and really unique," Brady said. "You can see him just kind of taking another step to his game, both in the run game and the pass game, which makes life exciting for me.”

Davis posted 442 yards and three touchdowns in his rookie season, along with 189 receiving yards and three touchdowns, as he showed his ability as a receiver.

So the talent is there, and Davis didn't start a single game in 2024, but did play all 17 in the regular season. Now with Cook's future uncertain, Davis might get a few more reps at training camp, depending on whether James participates or not.

If you are a critic of Cook and maybe a fan of Davis ... you have reason to wonder if the latter player might be the next man up to the job - without a $15 million asking price.

But for now?

Those "few more reps'' could prove invaluable for a player entering his second season, looking to make a leap and earn more reps under Brady, both as a runner and receiver.

Could he be the heir to Cook? While it is a little outlandish, the NFL is a never-say-never league.

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

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