What Does Bills' James Cook Need To Justify New Contract?

What Does Bills’ James Cook Need To Justify New Contract? originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is still without his desired new contract, despite stating he wanted an extension months ago.

The Bills have since re-signed a host of key players such as Josh Allen, Khalil Shakir, and Greg Rousseau, but James and his reported want for $15 million APY have been left off the to-do list. He participated in mandatory minicamp and stated he will be at training camp; we just don’t know in what capacity.

Given the Bills have just $100,700 in cap space, a contract extension this offseason looks unlikely, but what about next offseason? Sure, but then Buffalo won’t be the only team in for James’ services.

Now, we want all players to receive compensation that reflects their worth, as they deserve to be paid for the work they do to entertain fans.

So, looking ahead to the 2025 season, what type of year would James need to have to warrant a contract of roughly $15 million APY?

ESPN’s Mike Clay projects Cook to have 1,228 yards and 12 touchdowns, along with an extra 284 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver.

Fans are left to wonder…

Would that do it?

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4).Mark J&period; Rebilas-Imagn Images

It would mark a third straight season of 1,000+ yards and back-to-back seasons of 10+ rushing touchdowns, and that would also likely make it three straight Pro Bowls for the running back.

Yeah, that’ll likely do it.

But if that eventuates, Cook will likely have a few teams chasing his signature next offseason, because he now has the skins on the wall for three years.

Now, we think James should be paid this offseason, but it doesn’t look like that will be happening. But do what Clay is projecting here, and James will get that monster new contract.

Because if it isn’t Buffalo, someone else will give James what he feels he is worth.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.

What Does Bills’ James Cook Need To Justify New Contract?

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