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James Cook might be in attendance at Buffalo Bills training camp this week, but he is standing firm in contract negotiations with the team.
Cook, who led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last season, expressed his position after participating in the first two days of camp.
“We are in discussions,” he stated, as reported by ESPN. “I believe I deserve what I am asking for, and it will happen eventually.”
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook on the field during training camp at St. John Fisher University. (Mark Konezny/Imagn Images)
When asked if he is confident that the Bills will meet his contract extension demands, Cook responded, “It will get done, no matter how it happens or where it happens.”
The 25-year-old displayed his confidence earlier this offseason when he posted on Instagram with the caption “15 mill [per] year.”
If this demand is met, Cook would be tied with Baltimore Ravens veteran Derrick Henry for the third-highest average annual value among running backs in the NFL.
Cook has been vocal about his contract situation on social media, and he reiterated that he has no regrets about expressing his feelings publicly.
Bills GM Brandon Beane addressed Cook’s situation with reporters at the beginning of training camp.
“Sometimes agreements cannot be reached, or there are constraints to consider,” Beane explained. “There have been instances where players we valued have left because we couldn’t come to terms. But I am optimistic that James Cook will still be with us next year, representing the team.”
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook runs by slapping hands as he heads to the field during Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University in Pittsford July 24, 2025. (Imagn)
Cook has one more year remaining on his rookie deal with the Bills, who selected him in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft from Georgia. If an extension is not reached by next season, Cook would become a free agent unless the team decides to use the franchise tag on him.
Unlike some other players, Cook continued to participate in the Bills’ mandatory offseason practices while negotiations were ongoing.
“It’s my responsibility,” he stated. “I have to participate to avoid fines and show that I am prepared to earn what I am seeking.”
Cook praised the Bills as a “great organization” that he wishes to continue playing for. However, he has been clear about his demands and appears unwilling to compromise on financial terms.
In addition to his 16 rushing touchdowns last season, Cook rushed for 1,009 yards, marking his second consecutive season with over 1,000 yards after a breakout 2023 campaign.
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook on the field during training camp at St. John Fisher University. (Mark Konezny/Imagn Images)
While Cook is clearly the lead running back on the depth chart, Ray Davis and Ty Johnson provide relief and have demonstrated their abilities to contribute to the Bills’ offense.
Cook played only 48% of offensive snaps in his 16 games for the Bills last season.
Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
