James Cook has gradually turned into one of the NFL‘s better young running backs over the past three years since being drafted out of Georgia in 2022.
Although he has not quite managed to establish himself amongst the very elite up-and-comers at his position; Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs and Kyren Williams all had more productive seasons; he has added a true dynamic running game to the Bills beyond the mere acrobatics of quarterback, Josh Allen.
As such, and with this offseason being Cook’s first in which he is eligible to receive an extension from his rookie deal, the brother of former Minnesota Vikings star, Dalvin, is looking to cash in on his impressive play that included a league leading 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024.
James Cook Reacts To Saquon Barkley Contract Extension
In not so subtle fashion, Cook started the negotiation mind-games off with a two-word reaction to fellow back and reigning Offensive Player of the Year, Saquon Barkley, receiving a 2 year, $41 million extension on Tuesday.
An emphatic yet muted statement tells all that you need to know about Cook’s feelings concerning his financial future with the organization.
After a multitude of running backs found success at new organizations having received inexpensive deals in free agency; Barkley, Josh Jacobs and Aaron Jones Sr.; many believe the position is due a financial revival in 2025 and beyond.
Unfortunately, the RB free agent market this offseason is painfully thin, so Cook and other potential extension candidates like Kyren Williams and the Kansas City Chiefs‘ Isiah Pacheco will be looking to help bolster their price tags through other top talents getting paid.