Buffalo Bills star running back James Cook is in the middle of a tense contract negotiation with the franchise.
The former Georgia Bulldog is going into the fourth and final year of his rookie deal, and is hoping to get paid before the season begins.
James Cook Took Questions on His Deal in Las Vegas
ames Cook had a breakout season in 2024, emerging as a key offensive weapon under offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s system.
After recording just two touchdowns in 2023, Cook exploded for 19 rushing scores in 2024, tying Derrick Henry for the league lead despite nearly 100 fewer carries. He also posted a career-high 1,281 rushing yards on 260 attempts, firmly establishing himself as one of the NFL’s most efficient backs.
Currently on a four-year, $5.8 million rookie contract as a former second-round pick, Cook is set to enter the final year of his deal. While he could play out the season and explore free agency in 2026, the 24-year-old is seeking a contract extension before the 2025 campaign kicks off.
At a Pro-Am poker tournament in Las Vegas, Cook answered questions about his new contract.
In an interview with Pokernews, Cook was asked if he anticipated a new deal getting done before the season. He said:
“However it works out, it works out. I mean, I just make sure the business is a business, and just do whatever I can to always be there for my teammates, and however it works out, it works out. And then we go play football.”
He was then asked about a possible holdout, suggesting he wouldn’t play until he got his new deal. In response, he said:
“I necessarily don’t want to talk about it right now, because it’s like, it’s something I want to hold in to myself … just let the business take care of the business.”
Bills GM Brandon Beane had previously said he didn’t anticipate any kind of holdout from his running back. He was also upfront about the fact that the Bills were not willing to commit to an extension before the NFL draft, and reluctant to suggest there would be a new deal before the 2025 season.
Cook’s Market Value in 2025
Fortunately for Cook, the likes of Henry, Saquon Barkley, and Josh Jacobs worked wonders on revitalizing the running back market in free agency. There had been a standoff between NFL franchises and veteran running backs, with teams unwilling to pay large contracts due to durability concerns and the risk factor involved with the position.
Now, in 2025, the market seems to be a lot stronger, and the consistent increase in salary cap has also played a role.
According to Spotrac, James Cook’s current market value is estimated at $10.2 million per year on a multi-year deal.
The 25-year-old fourth-year back is looking to secure his future—and follow the path once taken by his older brother, Dalvin Cook. Dalvin signed a five-year, $63 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings in 2020, becoming one of the league’s highest-paid running backs at the time.
Now 29 and a free agent after a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, Dalvin’s uncertain status underscores the urgency many running backs feel to cash in on their first extension. With shorter average career spans compared to other positions, backs like James Cook are eager to lock in financial security while at their peak.