He Must Prove He’s Worth a Long-Term Future in Buffalo
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook must prove he’s still got what it takes if he wants to remain with the team long-term. Bills GM Brandon Beane recently shared his thoughts with Tyler Dunne of ‘Go Long’ NBC Sports, making it clear that while Cook has potential, the team needs to see consistent effort and results.
Cook, selected 63rd overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance since joining the Bills. In the 2024 NFL season, he carried the ball 207 times for 1,009 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. Despite these numbers, Beane emphasized that Cook has to keep pushing.
“You’d love for everyone to be here. Who wouldn’t? You’d love them to be around and start forming that bond,” Beane said. “But James is working. I know he’s down there training in South Florida. He’s working. First of all, he’s competitive. And sure, everyone wants to get paid, and he knows he’s got to still show he’s James Cook — the guy we saw — if he wants to get that pay day. Either from us or someone else.”
Cook is currently in the final year of his rookie deal after being selected by the Bills in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In the 2024 season, he carried the ball 207 times for 1,009 yards and scored 16 touchdowns—a significant contribution to Buffalo’s offense. But as the team looks toward the future, performance consistency will be key.
The Bills finished the 2024 season with a 13-4 record, topping the AFC East. However, their playoff run was cut short in the AFC Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs. With Cook approaching free agency, the next season will be pivotal for his career—and his value.
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Buffalo Bills Add Elijah Moore to Strengthen Offense
To strengthen their offense, the Buffalo Bills have brought in wide receiver Elijah Moore on a one-year, $5 million deal. Moore will be expected to support quarterback Josh Allen and give the team more depth in the passing game.
Last season, Moore played for the Cleveland Browns, recording 61 receptions for 538 yards and one touchdown. His experience and versatility should help the Bills maintain their strong offensive presence.
As Cook trains in South Florida and prepares for the upcoming season, the pressure is on. He’ll need to replicate, if not surpass, his 2024 output to secure a future with the team. For the Bills, balancing young talent with strategic signings like Moore could make all the difference.
With big questions surrounding James Cook’s future and strategic additions like Elijah Moore, the 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be a defining one for the Buffalo Bills.
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