Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has made headlines after missing the team’s first voluntary workout of the offseason, sending a message that he may not be satisfied with his current contract situation.
Entering the final year of his rookie deal, the 24-year-old is already drawing support from his brother, veteran free agent running back Dalvin Cook.
Dalvin, a four-time Pro Bowl selection and former star with the Minnesota Vikings, took to social media on Wednesday to throw his weight behind James‘ case. Dalvin publicly called on the Bills to give his younger brother a long-term extension worth at least $20 million annually – a bold request in a market that has historically undervalued the running back position.
Josh Allen and Brandon Beane weigh in on Cook’s absence
James Cook‘s decision to skip the opening day of Buffalo’s offseason program – while technically within his rights, given that the workouts are voluntary – has raised eyebrows nonetheless. Especially since the 2025 campaign marks the final year of his rookie contract.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen, addressing the media on Tuesday, acknowledged the situation but chose to focus on the players present.
“I think the guys in this locker room understand the business side of it… I just try to make sure that I’m focusing on what I can control and making sure that the guys that are here are getting the work done. I know James is working out and getting the work done, and hoping that it gets figured out, but it’ll get figured out when it gets figured out,” Allen said.
Buffalo’s general manager Brandon Beane also responded to questions about Cook‘s absence. Though he confirmed that Cook had not informed the team of any formal holdout, Beane remained optimistic that the situation would resolve itself in due time.
“I’m not concerned,” Beane said, brushing off the absence as a non-issue for now.
He added that players often have their own offseason timelines, especially when workouts are not mandatory.
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