James Cook Reportedly Preparing to Leave the Buffalo Bills
Running Back James Cook Sparks Speculation About His Future
One of the primary concerns for the Buffalo Bills is the future of their star running back, James Cook. Recent developments suggest that Cook is preparing to move on from the team, fueling speculation about his next destination in the NFL.
Cook Puts His Home on the Market
Following general manager Brandon Beane’s announcement that the Bills have no immediate plans to negotiate with Cook, the 25-year-old running back has made a significant move—listing his home for sale.
Cook’s 2,090-square-foot property is now on the market for $710,000, listed by HUNT Real Estate. The house was last purchased on July 26, 2022, for $480,000. While this could simply be an upgrade in ownership, the timing has led many to believe it signals his intent to leave Buffalo.
Cook’s Contract Demands and the Bills’ Stance
Drafted by the Bills in 2022 with the 63rd overall pick, Cook has played three seasons in Buffalo, earning Pro Bowl honors in the last two. Since the conclusion of the 2024 season, he has been seeking a contract extension worth more than $15 million annually, a figure that would make him the second-highest-paid running back in the NFL.
However, the Bills have shown reluctance to meet that demand, particularly given the devaluation of the running back position in recent years. Additionally, Cook was utilized on only about 50 percent of the team’s offensive snaps last season, making the high asking price a significant hurdle.
Bills’ Track Record With Running Backs
Buffalo’s history under Beane suggests that re-signing Cook may not be in the cards. Since taking over as general manager eight years ago, Beane has never signed a second contract with a drafted running back.
Beane acknowledged the public nature of Cook’s contract demands, stating: “I would say his reps and he made it public, so I’m not sharing anything new. It didn’t lead to anything as far as closing a deal, and then, we moved on to the guys we were more on the same page with.”
The Bills’ Alternative Plans
In the past month, the Bills have extended contracts for three members of Cook’s 2022 draft class—linebacker Terrel Bernard, receiver Khalil Shakir, and cornerback Christian Benford—each signing four-year deals.
With 10 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, Buffalo has the flexibility to select a new running back if Cook departs. Until then, the uncertainty surrounding his future continues to be a major talking point for
the franchise and its fans.
James Cook Reportedly Preparing to Leave the Buffalo Bills
Running Back James Cook Sparks Speculation About His Future
One of the primary concerns for the Buffalo Bills is the future of their star running back, James Cook. Recent developments suggest that Cook is preparing to move on from the team, fueling speculation about his next destination in the NFL.
Cook Puts His Home on the Market
Following general manager Brandon Beane’s announcement that the Bills have no immediate plans to negotiate with Cook, the 25-year-old running back has made a significant move—listing his home for sale.
Cook’s 2,090-square-foot property is now on the market for $710,000, listed by HUNT Real Estate. The house was last purchased on July 26, 2022, for $480,000. While this could simply be an upgrade in ownership, the timing has led many to believe it signals his intent to leave Buffalo.
Cook’s Contract Demands and the Bills’ Stance
Drafted by the Bills in 2022 with the 63rd overall pick, Cook has played three seasons in Buffalo, earning Pro Bowl honors in the last two. Since the conclusion of the 2024 season, he has been seeking a contract extension worth more than $15 million annually, a figure that would make him the second-highest-paid running back in the NFL.
However, the Bills have shown reluctance to meet that demand, particularly given the devaluation of the running back position in recent years. Additionally, Cook was utilized on only about 50 percent of the team’s offensive snaps last season, making the high asking price a significant hurdle.
Bills’ Track Record With Running Backs
Buffalo’s history under Beane suggests that re-signing Cook may not be in the cards. Since taking over as general manager eight years ago, Beane has never signed a second contract with a drafted running back.
Beane acknowledged the public nature of Cook’s contract demands, stating: “I would say his reps and he made it public, so I’m not sharing anything new. It didn’t lead to anything as far as closing a deal, and then, we moved on to the guys we were more on the same page with.”
The Bills’ Alternative Plans
In the past month, the Bills have extended contracts for three members of Cook’s 2022 draft class—linebacker Terrel Bernard, receiver Khalil Shakir, and cornerback Christian Benford—each signing four-year deals.
With 10 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, Buffalo has the flexibility to select a new running back if Cook departs. Until then, the uncertainty surrounding his future continues to be a major talking point for the franchise and its fans.
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