James Cook and the Buffalo Bills have reached a four-year, $48 million extension, with $30 million guaranteed, locking the star running back in through 2029. His agents, Zac Hiller and Matt Leist, confirmed the deal to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Bills general manager Brandon Beane said the paperwork was signed before Wednesday’s practice, ensuring Cook’s place as a central figure in Buffalo’s offense for years to come.
Swift Return From Hold-In Sparks Productive Talks And Secures Long-Term Deal With Bills
The agreement came swiftly after Cook returned to practice Tuesday following a week-long “hold-in.” During that stretch, he missed the team’s first preseason game and four practices but remained engaged by joining warm-ups, walkthroughs, and meetings. Beane credited Cook’s return to the practice field as a turning point in negotiations, noting that it showed commitment from both sides.
James Cook (NFL)Talks began early in the offseason, paused before the NFL draft, and reignited around training camp. Beane admitted he was wary the hold-in could disrupt the team but praised the mutual understanding within the locker room. Both Cook’s camp and the Bills cited transparent and honest communication as the foundation for closing the deal late Tuesday night. Hiller emphasized that Cook never envisioned playing anywhere else.
Balanced Workload Keeps Cook Fresh While Delivering Elite Production For Buffalo’s Offense
While Cook is Buffalo’s lead back and a two-time Pro Bowler, his workload is managed to preserve his effectiveness. Last season, he played 47.5% of offensive snaps, with Ty Johnson and Ray Davis taking situational carries. Beane said Cook could handle more touches but that the team prefers to rotate its backs to keep the offense unpredictable and Cook fresh.
Cook’s impact on the Bills’ high-powered offense has been undeniable. In 2024, he tied O.J. Simpson’s franchise record with 16 rushing touchdowns and ranked fifth in the league in yards before contact per rush at 3.1. He scored 18 total touchdowns, doubling his combined total from his first two seasons, and cemented himself as one of the NFL’s most dynamic running backs.
