Bills GM Beane Reports No Timeline on Cook Contract Standoff

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has escalated his contract negotiations by sitting out practice for a second consecutive day, aiming for a new deal reportedly worth around $15 million annually, which would rank him among the highest-paid running backs in the NFL. General Manager Brandon Beane expressed surprise at Cook's absence, noting the team was only informed shortly before practice and emphasizing that this is the first time in his nine seasons that a player has missed practice over contract issues. Cook, entering the final year of his rookie contract, has been a key contributor with back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons and tied for the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns last year. Despite the standoff, Cook has maintained that his actions are purely business, and while he risks fines for missing practice, he has continued to participate in mandatory team activities earlier in the offseason. Beane remains hopeful for a resolution and stressed ongoing dialogue with Cook, but acknowledged there is no clear timeline for ending the contract dispute. The Bills are preparing for their preseason opener against the New York Giants, adding urgency to the situation.