Everything looked fine for Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane until Sunday. When Josh Allen and the rest of the players started to get ready to practice, running back James Cook remained in street clothes and watched the session from outside.
Beane spoke to Sal Capaccio of WGR and said that Cook’s plan was “not something they were fully aware of until shortly before practice” and that the hope is to have Cook back on the field soon. The player told the reason he wasn’t practicing was “business.” Beane didn’t sound too happy with Cook’s modus operandi.
“At the end of the day, I wish we weren’t here,” Beane added. “This is my ninth season and have never had a player miss practice due to a contract, so it’s disappointing for me.” However, it seems like there is no bad blood, just mere business. Beane added that there’s been “constant communication” with Cook, who is in the last year of his rookie contract.
Who is James Cook’s backup?
As of right now, NFL veteran Ty Johnson is serving as RB2. Johnson has been on the Lions, before spending his next three years playing for the Jets, and finally landing on the Bills in 2023.
Ty Johnson #26 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball in the third quarter against the New York Jets at Highmark Stadium on November 19, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York.
Johnson’s first year on the Bills was discreet, posting only 132 yards. However, last season he saw an upgrade as he racked up 497 yards from scrimmage and four total touchdowns. He was very productive for his role.
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Cook is likely to stay
The rumblings around the NFL are that Cook will remain on the Bills roster. It’s just a matter of time for both parties to get to an agreement. However, Cook might notice some desperation for Beane after publicly saying there is disappointment as how the issue’s been managed and that this is the first time someone is holding out.
Cook might feel like he has some leverage to pressure Bean. This is the time to get the best deal. The running back also has the endorsement of quarterback Josh Allen. In 2024, Cook was the most productive weapon for the Bills as he led the team in both scrimmage yards (1,267) and total touchdowns (18).
