James Cook now sitting out multiple training camp practices amid an ongoing contract standoff with the Buffalo Bills, as it looks increasing likely the running back could look for pastures new. So where could he go?
Although the situation appears to be escalating, Cook hasn’t officially requested a trade yet his refusal to participate fully, often referred to as a “hold-in”, signals mounting dissatisfaction.
On Monday, August 4, the 25-year-old was present for only a brief portion of the team’s workout in Pittsford, dressed in casual gear rather than practice equipment. It marked the second straight day he skipped full participation.
It creates the possibility that Buffalo could explore trade options before the season begins as they look for a stable dressing room at the Highmark Stadium as they prepare for a Super Bowl charge with Josh Allen.
A big moment in Cook’s career
Cook, who led the NFL in rushing touchdowns (16) last season and finished among the league leaders in total yards from scrimmage, is entering a pivotal stage of his rookie contract.
While no formal demand has been made, his current posture puts pressure on the Bills’ front office. Given his production, age, and upside, he would command considerable value on the trade market.
“It’s the world we’re in, I guess,” Brandon Beane, general manager, said. “Of how players want to respond and things like that. At the end of the day, I wish we weren’t here.
“This is my ninth season here, we’ve never had a player miss due to a contract or anything like that, so that’s disappointing for me.”
If Buffalo chooses to entertain offers, here are three teams that could emerge as viable trade partners:
James Cook trade: Who could acquire the running back?
First up is the Dallas Cowboys, who finds itself in urgent need of backfield help after failing to secure a true No. 1 running back in the offseason to bolster their strong receiver corps.
With an offense built around Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and newly acquired George Pickens, the Cowboys lack balance without a dynamic threat out of the backfield.
So a speculative blockbuster involving Micah Parsons would grab headlines, though it would be financially difficult to execute as the linebacker looks for a $40+ million-per-year contract, and the Bills are already tight against the salary cap.
Second is the Commanders as Washington has made clear its win-now intentions by adding stars like Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel to support their talented quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Adding Cook would complete a balanced and high-powered offensive unit, but to make a deal work, the Commanders may need to include starting their own running back, Brian Robinson Jr. and future draft capital.
Buffalo, in need of a serviceable replacement and long-term roster flexibility, could find such a proposal appealing.
There is also the possibility of including securing the veteran wideout Terry McLaurin in the discussion, though Buffalo’s priority would likely center around maintaining rushing production.
Finally is an outsider’s pick in the Chicago Bears, who may be inclined to upgrade their running game to support Caleb Williams and bolster an already promising young core in their first year of Ben Johnson’s leadership.
Chicago could offer their own running back, D’Andre Swift, along with a mid-round draft pick – which for Buffalo provides a plug-and-play running back plus draft compensation to manage future roster construction.
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