The Buffalo Bills and star running back James Cook have. been a topic of discussion around the NFL all offseason long.
Cook wants a new contract and a major pay raise. To this point, the Bills have not seemed willing to give into his demands. Many believe that the situation will lead to the two sides parting ways.
While there have been some signs of optimism between the two sides, including Cook reporting to training camp rather than holding out away from the team, the discussions have not improved to this point.
James Cook #4 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.
James Cook #4 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images
Now that players are in town and training camp has begun, players are speaking out. Cook revealed more details with his thoughts on the contract situation.
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In a media appearance, Cook spoke out with comments that didn’t give much information. However, he did double down on what he’s worth and also made it clear that he’s willing to leave town to get it.
“We’ve had talks,” Cook said. “I’m never going to give up. I deserve what I want – what I need. It’s going to eventually happen. It’s going to get done, wherever it happens at.”
Obviously, the last sentence of his statement is key. He said that “wherever it happens at” is where he’ll land. That suggests he’d be willing to leave Buffalo in order to get the deal he knows he deserves.
Last season with the Bills, Cook was a huge part of the elite offense the team put together. He carried the football 207 times in 16 games for 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He also caught 32 passes for 258 yards and two scores.
Even though he hinted at being willing to leave Buffalo to get paid what he deserves, Cook also revealed why he’d prefer to stay with the Bills long-term.
“The quarterback and the fans,” Cook said. “It’s a great organization. I mean, they drafted me, and they drafted me for a reason. I’m willing to be here.”
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All that fans can do now is to wait and see what the two sides end up doing. Cook could be playing in his final season with Buffalo. It’s also possible the two sides could iron out a new deal that keeps him around long-term.
Only time will tell, but Cook’s latest comments are a warning to the Bills to pay him or risk losing him.
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