Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has now missed two straight training camp practices, fueling speculation about his contract situation. Cook, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, was present at Monday’s practice only briefly and did not suit up.
Dressed in workout gear and a beanie, he was seen walking the perimeter of the field before heading back to the locker room. His limited appearance followed a similar pattern on Sunday, where he remained on the sidelines for the entire session without participating.
Cook Cites “Business” as Talks Stall, Beane Frustrated by Unexpected Practice Absence
When asked on Sunday why he wasn’t practicing, the 25-year-old running back offered a simple explanation: “business.” While Cook had participated in all of the team’s mandatory minicamp and initial training camp sessions, he had skipped voluntary offseason activities, a move that may have signaled the growing importance of his contract situation. His recent absence suggests that negotiations may have stalled, prompting him to take a more public stance.
James Cook (NFL)General Manager Brandon Beane expressed his frustration during a local radio appearance, stating this was the first time in his nine-year tenure with the Bills that a player missed practice due to contract reasons.
Beane admitted the team didn’t know about Cook’s absence on Sunday until just before practice and was unsure about his status on Monday. Despite the situation, Beane emphasized there has been “constant communication” with Cook’s camp, though a deal has yet to be reached.
Despite Teammate Support, Cook’s Contract Talks Stall Amid Value Disagreements with Bills
The Bills have successfully extended three other members of their 2022 draft class, Christian Benford, Terrel Bernard, and Khalil Shakir, but Cook remains unsigned. Discussions about a contract extension reportedly began in the spring, but both sides have not found a mutual “sweet spot,” according to Beane.
He added that the team isn’t against paying running backs but believes the deal must reflect fair value, a sentiment that suggests ongoing disagreement over Cook’s market value.
Cook’s absence was met with support from teammates, including fellow running backs Ty Johnson and Ray Davis, who both learned of Cook’s decision as practice began. Johnson in particular defended Cook, saying, “He’s trying to do what’s best for him,” and acknowledged the short career span of NFL players.
As the Bills take a scheduled day off on Tuesday before returning to practice Wednesday at St. John Fisher University, all eyes remain on whether Cook will return and under what terms.
