James Cook Absent from Bills OTAs Amid Contract Dispute
The Buffalo Bills began their voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) on Tuesday, but running back James Cook was noticeably absent.
Cook, who is in the final year of his rookie deal, has been vocal this off-season about wanting a new contract. His demands gained attention in March when he posted “15 mill a year” on social media following Saquon Barkley’s two-year, $41.2 million extension with the Eagles. Cook later confirmed that he believed his next contract should reflect a similar value.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane acknowledged during the NFL GM meetings that there is a significant gap between the two sides regarding a potential extension.
Quarterback Josh Allen addressed Cook’s absence after Tuesday’s OTA session. “I just focus on what I can control and support the guys who are here,” Allen said. “I know James is working and staying in shape. Hopefully it gets resolved, but we understand this is part of the business.”
Cook had a strong third season in Buffalo, rushing for 1,002 yards and scoring a career-high 16 touchdowns, tying him for the league lead with Derrick Henry and Jahmyr Gibbs. He also added 32 receptions for 258 yards and one touchdown.
The Bills saw contributions from other backs last season as well—Ray Davis totaled 631 yards from scrimmage with six touchdowns, while Ty Johnson added 497 yards and four scores.
Complicating the situation, several other homegrown players have received contract extensions this off-season, including Josh Allen, linebacker Terrel Bernard, wide receiver Khalil Shakir, edge rusher Gregory Rousseau, and cornerback Christian Benford.
“It means a lot,” Allen said about the team retaining its own talent. “Those guys are here, still grinding. It shows their character and reflects well on the front office.”
In 49 career games with Buffalo, Cook has accumulated 2,638 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns, along with 883 receiving yards and seven touchdowns through the air. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice in his three seasons.
