James Cook, Bills end contract drama with $48M deal

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James Cook’s training camp started with smiles and full participation. Even as he made it clear he wanted a new contract, the third-year running back stayed on the field, keeping things light with teammates. But last week, the mood shifted-Cook sat out unexpectedly, citing “business” as the reason.

It was the modern NFL’s version of a soft protest: a “hold-in.” No angry statements, no public fireworks, just a calculated absence to send a message. That message was received.

Early Wednesday morning, the Bills and Cook agreed to a four-year, $48 million contract extension, with $30 million guaranteed, per NFL Network. The deal ends weeks of speculation and keeps Cook in Buffalo through the 2029 season.

On Tuesday, head coach Sean McDermott had already hinted at progress. “Things have changed,” he told reporters. “We’ve had good conversations. He’s expected to practice today.” And practice he did-setting the stage for the deal that followed within 24 hours.

Cook Gets His Bag, Bills Get Their Back

The contract, averaging $12 million annually, doesn’t quite match Cook’s early reported asking price of $15 million per year, but it still puts him among the league’s top-paid running backs. According to CBS Sports, the extension ranks in the top dozen RB contracts in the NFL.

The 25-year-old is fresh off a season where he tied for the league lead in rushing touchdowns (16) and became a fixture in Buffalo’s red-zone attack. In an era when running backs often struggle to land big extensions, Cook’s deal reflects both his production and the Bills’ desire for stability in the backfield.

Cook’s agent, Zac Hiller, made it clear during negotiations that his client wasn’t looking for a way out. “James Cook only wants to be a Buffalo Bill,” Hiller said last week. That commitment now has a dollar figure-and a timeline-to match.

The Bills’ front office, led by GM Brandon Beane, has made a habit of rewarding homegrown talent. From Josh Allen to Dion Dawkins, the philosophy is simple: draft, develop, and keep the best pieces. Cook’s extension fits that mold perfectly.

For Buffalo, this is about more than one player’s payday. It’s about locking in an offensive core that can chase what’s eluded the franchise for more than 30 years: a Super Bowl berth. With Allen under center, Stefon Diggs still in the mix, and now Cook secured, the offense has the firepower to match the AFC’s best.

And for Cook? The “business” part of the equation is done. Now, the focus shifts to touchdowns, yards, and maybe-finally-a parade in Buffalo.

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