James Cook Holds In Amid Contract Standoff

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is engaged in a contract standoff as he seeks an extension entering the final year of his rookie deal. Cook, who led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024, has been attending training camp but is not participating in on-field activities, citing 'business' reasons in a 'hold-in' strategy. His agent has expressed that Cook wants to stay with the team, and both sides remain in communication, though the Bills are reluctant to meet his reported $15 million per year demand following Kyren Williams’ $11 million annual extension with the Rams. The dispute is creating some unease as the Bills prepare for the upcoming season. Despite the impasse, optimism remains for a resolution, with the outcome likely depending on whether the team will approach the new market benchmark set by Williams' contract. Cook has been a key offensive contributor, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons.