Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has made it clear that he expects a significant payday in his next contract. During an Instagram Live session, Cook pinned a comment stating “15 mill year,” signaling his desired annual salary. This revelation comes as he enters the final year of his rookie deal, where he is set to earn $5.142 million in base salary. Now eligible for an extension, Cook’s statement has sparked discussions about whether the Bills will meet his valuation.
A Competitive Market for Running Backs
Cook’s $15 million demand is not arbitrary; it would make him the second-highest-paid running back in the league, behind only Christian McCaffrey, who earns $19 million annually. His desired figure would surpass other top-tier running backs such as Jonathan Taylor ($14 million), Saquon Barkley ($12.583 million), and Alvin Kamara ($12.25 million). Notably, all these players are older than the 25-year-old Cook, which may bolster his argument for a lucrative deal.
Cook has established himself as one of the league’s premier running backs, making a strong case for a higher salary. A Pro Bowler, he has recorded consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons and tied for the NFL lead with 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024. Additionally, his impressive 4.9 yards per carry ranked fifth among running backs with at least 200 carries. His performance suggests that he is among the most productive backs in the NFL, which could justify his desired salary.
Buffalo’s Financial Considerations
Whether the Bills will meet Cook’s contract expectations remains uncertain. Last season, Buffalo employed a committee approach, with rookie Ray Davis receiving 113 carries. If the team continues to distribute touches among multiple backs, paying Cook $15 million may not align with their financial strategy. Additionally, the Bills have the option of using the franchise tag in 2026, projected to be around $15 million, which could delay a long-term commitment.
While Cook has signaled his expectations, negotiations do not always align with a player’s personal valuation. His willingness to publicly declare a specific figure suggests he values himself highly heading into contract talks. However, whether Buffalo sees him as a $15 million-per-year player will ultimately determine how negotiations unfold. The coming months will reveal whether the Bills meet Cook’s price tag or pursue an alternative approach to their backfield.