Bills' surprising draft decision provides hints about James Cook contract saga

The situation between the Buffalo Bills and James Cook may not be as toxic as it seems externally.

Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) reacts after rushing for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half in the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The last time the Buffalo Bills' starting running back was heading into the final season of his rookie contract, general manager Brandon Beane and Co. drafted James Cook with a Round 2 pick.

Now, with Cook in his contract year, and publicly seeking $15+ million annually, it seemed proper for the Bills to use a mid-round selection on a running back at NFL Draft, but it didn't happen. Instead, Beane claimed the Bills followed their board, taking the best value available, until the "very end" of the draft.

One can consider Cook a winner with Buffalo opting not to draft a running back. At the least, it'll give the future free agent a little more leverage in upcoming negotiations.

From the team's perspective, the Bills either like their backups a lot and/or they feel good about the Cook situation down the road. Both things can be, and may very well be, true.

Feb 25, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

“I've been very comfortable with James the whole time. I hope everyone's seen that. We love James. Call him Jimbo, but we love Jimbo," said Beane shortly after the Bills submitted their final pick of the draft. "Nothing has changed. The business is the business. If Jimbo walked through those doors, I'd give him a big hug, and I believe he would do the same."

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Whether it's Cook posting comments on a livestream, or his brother making demands on his behalf, there is reason to believe that the running back isn't thrilled he's still without a contract extension. According to Beane, however, the relationship remains strong and far from irreparable.

"I think outside world sometimes tries to make things bigger than they are. Social media, I know, adds to that. Jimbo has a big heart. He's a competitive dude. He wants to win. Nothing gives me any concern about Jimbo being ready to play football for the Buffalo Bills this year," said Beane.

It's worth noting that Cook has yet to arrive in Orchard Park for voluntary OTAs, but there are eight more weeks for him to do so.

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