There was a reason Buffalo Bills running back James Cook returned to practice Tuesday. Turns out, Cook and the Bills had something in the works behind the scenes, as the 25-year-old running back inked a four-year, $48 million extension Wednesday, according to multiple reports.
The deal reportedly contains $30 million in guaranteed money, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
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The Bills confirmed the deal, though did not mention the financials in their post.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane also confirmed the deal Wednesday, saying he was proud to extend another Bills draft pick. He added that the deal came together late Tuesday night.
Entering Wednesday, Cook was one of the two biggest offensive names staging a hold-in until he received a new contract. While Cook reported to training camp, he did not take part in practice until Tuesday as he awaited a new contract. He was, however, involved in team meetings and walkthroughs. With Cook signed, Washington Commanders wideout Terry McLaurin is now the lone offensive star still waiting on a new deal.
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Prior to Wednesday’s extension, Cook was set to enter the final year of his contract in 2025. The running back made it clear during the offseason that he wanted a long-term deal with the Bills, hinting that his asking price was $15 million per year. That figure would have made Cook the third highest-paid running back in annual value, behind Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley.
While Cook’s new extension doesn’t reach those heights, it’s possible the $30 million in guaranteed money made up the difference.
The deal ensures Cook will remain with the Bills for the long-term, and allows the team to retain one of its core offensive players. After inking Cook on Wednesday, the Bills now have Cook, Josh Allen and Khalil Shakir under contract for multiple seasons.
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After being selected by the Bills in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Cook turned in a promising rookie season, rushing for 507 yards and three combined scores.
He took a major step forward in his second year, rushing for a career-high 1,122 yards and scoring six combined touchdowns. He rushed for fewer yards last season, coming in at 1,009, but exploded for a league-leading 16 rushing touchdowns.
With Cook now under contract, the Bills can focus on winning the team’s first Super Bowl in franchise history. Should the Bills finally get the job done, Cook — and Allen, of course — will almost certainly play a major role in the team finally getting over the hump.