James Cook signs new Bills contract

The Buffalo Bills and star running back James Cook have agreed to a four-year, $48 million deal with $30 million guaranteed, NFL Network reported on Wednesday morning.

James Cook lands $48 million Bills deal to end awkward contract standoff

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has agreed to a four-year deal worth 48 million dollars, with 30 million guaranteed, ending a hold-in during camp. Cook practiced with the team at the start of training camp but paused on August 3 for business reasons. He later returned to practice and appeared in uniform for the preseason opener against the Giants, a sign of renewed engagement with the team.

Cook broke out in 2024 with 16 rushing touchdowns and more than 1,000 yards. The new deal secures a key weapon for the Bills offense as they pursue another playoff run with quarterback Josh Allen leading the attack.

The contract shows that production at the running back position still holds value in the league when the player delivers. It also raises questions about how Buffalo will manage the salary cap in coming years as they balance offense with other needs. The move signals that the Bills want to keep a high powered offense intact and that Cook remains central to that plan.

For Cook, the deal ends the camp drama and sets clear expectations for a productive season. It could influence how other teams weigh extensions for young stars and may shape the tone of negotiations around running backs across the league.

Highlights

The season will test how the Bills deploy a trusted back in a high pace offense.