James Cook lands $48 million Bills deal to end awkward contract standoff
Buffalo and star running back James Cook agreed to a four-year, $48 million deal with $30 million guaranteed, NFL Network reported Wednesday morning.
It puts an end to strange hold-in situation for the 25-year-old as he pushed to be paid like one of the league's top backs.
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James Cook agreed to a new contract with the Bills.
Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
Cook practiced with the team at the start of camp but then stopped on Aug. 3, citing 'business' reasons.
Bills coach Sean McDermott said last week he expected Cook to return to practice — except he didn't.
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Cook then appeared in uniform during warmups for the team's preseason opener against the Giants, which is unusual for a player with no intention of actually playing.
The situation appeared to turn Tuesday when Cook did actually return to practice.
James Cook takes a handoff from Josh Allen at Bills camp.
AP
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'I would say so that things have changed,' McDermott told reporters.
'And yes, we have had conversations with James. Good conversations, as I've mentioned before. The information that we're getting is that he is moving in the direction of practicing today. We'll see in a few minutes here, but that's the information that we've got.'
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Now the Bills, who have Super Bowl aspirations once again led by quarterback Josh Allen, have a crucial piece of their offense back.
Cook had a breakout season in 2024 when he rushed for 16 touchdowns to complement a second straight 1,000-yard campaign.
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