Bills GM Indicates No Contract Extension for James Cook Soon

Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane announced that a contract extension for running back James Cook is unlikely to occur before the upcoming NFL draft. While the team has successfully extended several players from the 2022 draft class, including cornerback Christian Benford and defensive end Greg Rousseau, discussions with Cook have not progressed towards a deal. Cook, coming off impressive seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards and multiple Pro Bowl appearances, has expressed a desire for a salary exceeding $15 million per year, a figure the Bills are reluctant to meet. Beane emphasized that while they are focused on the draft now, this does not preclude future negotiations with Cook. The Bills could utilize franchise or transition tags to retain Cook should he reach free agency in 2026. Ultimately, both parties have expressed a willingness to pursue a long-term deal, albeit at differing valuation points.