The Buffalo Bills fell just short of breaking through in the AFC Championship Game, losing 32-29 to the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Despite the disappointment, the team remains in contention for a Super Bowl push next season.
However, one major offseason decision could shape their future, whether to meet star running back James Cook‘s contract demands. Cook, who has been a key piece of the Bills’ offense, is coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons and led the league with 16 touchdowns in 2024.
Entering the final year of his rookie contract, the 25-year-old is reportedly looking for a lucrative extension worth $15 million per year. If the deal is finalized, Cook would become the second-highest-paid running back in the NFL, trailing only Christian McCaffrey, who earns $16 million annually.
While Buffalo’s front office weighs its options, head coach Sean McDermott has provided insight into Cook‘s value to the team, hinting that keeping him in Buffalo is a priority.
Bills must decide on Cook’s long-term value
The Bills must carefully consider whether to invest heavily in Cook or allocate resources elsewhere. Running backs typically have shorter career peaks than other positions, making long-term deals a potential risk.
Additionally, with quarterback Josh Allen already on a massive contract, Buffalo needs to manage its salary cap carefully to remain competitive. Despite the financial challenge, McDermott appears to be in favor of retaining Cook. Speaking at a press conference before the NFL Combine, he expressed admiration for Cook’s growth and contributions to the team.
“When you are a coach, and you are on the field with these players, and you are in the meetings and you are watching them develop on the field, off the field, [Cook] is one of the examples of the joys that come with coaching,” McDermott said.
“Watching a young man develop in both of those areas… It’s a great feeling as a coach to watch a young man do what he did.. the business part is going to take care of itself.”
McDermott‘s words suggest that while contract negotiations are in the hands of Buffalo’s front office, he values Cook‘s role in the team’s success and would like to see him stay long-term.
Will the Bills commit to a long-term deal?
The Bills’ decision on Cook will likely depend on their overall roster-building strategy. Keeping a high-performing running back like Cook would provide stability to their offense and ease the pressure on Allen.
However, if Buffalo hesitates to meet Cook‘s asking price, they could explore alternative options, including the franchise tag. For now, Cook‘s future remains uncertain, but his contributions on the field make a compelling case for a contract extension.
With McDermott publicly praising his development, it remains to be seen whether Buffalo will make the financial commitment to keep him as a key piece of their championship aspirations.
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