Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is coming off a stellar season, establishing himself as a dominant force in the backfield. Now, he’s looking to be compensated like one of the league’s top running backs.
In 2024, Cook rushed for 1,006 yards and an impressive 16 touchdowns while also contributing 258 receiving yards and two touchdowns in Joe Brady’s offense. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract—set to pay him $5.1 million in 2025—Cook has subtly hinted that he expects a lucrative extension.
During an Instagram Live session, Cook pinned a comment that read “$15 mill year,” suggesting that he believes he’s worth a top-tier salary. According to Over The Cap, a $15 million average annual salary (APY) would make Cook the second-highest-paid running back in the league, trailing only Christian McCaffrey ($19 million APY) and surpassing Saquon Barkley ($14 million APY).
The big question now is whether the Bills are willing to meet Cook’s demands. If they do, it could signal a shift in how teams value the running back position. However, $15 million per year is a steep price, and while Cook’s recent performance justifies a significant raise, it remains uncertain whether Buffalo is prepared to invest that much in him this offseason. The team now faces a crucial decision on Cook’s future.
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