James Cook Speaks Out Amid Contract Standoff with Bills
The Buffalo Bills find themselves in a challenging situation with running back James Cook, who has quietly signaled the beginning of a potential holdout. The standout back, coming off two consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and leading the league in rushing touchdowns last year, has skipped the team’s voluntary workouts as contract negotiations stall.
Despite his strong production since being drafted in the second round, Cook has yet to secure a second contract with the Bills. Reportedly seeking an extension worth around $15 million per year, Cook’s absence from team activities suggests growing tension. General manager Brandon Beane attempted to minimize concerns, emphasizing that the workouts are voluntary, but the message seems clear: the two sides are far apart.
In his first public comments on the matter, Cook spoke cautiously. “I don’t really want to talk about it right now,” he said in an interview with PokerNews. “It’s something I want to keep to myself and let the business side handle things.” While not a direct confirmation of a holdout, his words hint at a willingness to withhold participation if negotiations continue to stall.
The Bills, meanwhile, are trying to maintain a positive outlook. Beane has stated the team believes Cook will be “ready to go” when the time comes, though there’s no indication a deal is imminent. For now, both sides appear to be waiting the other out, with tensions quietly simmering beneath the surface.
Fans are growing increasingly anxious, unsure whether their star running back will suit up without a new deal. If an agreement isn’t reached soon, what began as a minor absence could evolve into a major distraction for a team with high playoff ambitions.
