Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is holding out during training camp, seeking a new contract that reflects his value to the team. The fourth-year player had a stellar season in 2024, rushing for 16 touchdowns and gaining 1,267 scrimmage yards.
Cook is now in the final year of his four-year rookie contract worth $5,832,057, which will expire after the 2025 season if no deal is reached with Buffalo. The situation has created tension as preseason games get underway, with Cook suiting up for the team’s opener against the New York Giants but not playing.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott acknowledged the standoff, stating that Cook had agreed to warm up before the game but was not willing to play due to his contract situation. With no changes in sight, Cook’s decision to hold out is a significant concern for the team, which relies heavily on its running back corps.
Cook’s negotiation status has been ongoing since the offseason, with some reports suggesting he is seeking a new deal that could be worth up to $10 million annually. The exact details of his contract demands remain unclear, but one thing is certain: Cook’s holdout is a pressing issue for the Bills as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/08/10/james-cook-contract-updates-bills-rb/85602364007