Former Georgia RB James Cook sits out of Bills practice during contract talks
By Andrew Olson
Published:
The Buffalo Bills practiced on Sunday, but James Cook was not a participant. The former Georgia running back is sitting out as he seeks a contract extension.
Cook has made his feelings known on his compensation. Back in February, Cook indicated in a comment on a social media post that he sought to be paid $15 million per year.
Though he did not practice, Cook was on hand. Per ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg, he sported Bills gear and briefly used an exercise bike on the sideline. Cook spoke to reporters, but did not go into details about negotiations, referring to the dispute as a business matter multiple times.
Bills RB James Cook asked why he didn’t practice today?
— Alaina Getzenberg (@agetzenberg) August 3, 2025
“Business.”
Followed up with if he’ll practice tomorrow: “Business.”
Kept repeating “business” over and over.
Cook, who turns 26 in September, is entering his fourth professional season. A back-to-back Pro Bowl selection, Cook is coming off a breakout season in 2024 as the NFL’s rushing touchdowns leader. Last season, Cook logged 207 carries for 1,009 yards and 16 TDs. He also had his most productive postseason with 53 carries for 272 yards and 3 TDs.
In 2023, Cook posted his career-highs in carries (237) and rushing yards (1,122), as well his best receiving numbers (44 catches, 445 yards, 4 TDs).
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
