The Buffalo Bills were rather underrated coming into the season. Going through a soft reboot, they traded away star wide receiver Stefon Diggs and were content with developing their younger guys. But thanks to Josh Allen’s MVP-caliber season, the team finished as the AFC’s No. 2 seed and was in the Conference Championship.
But it wasn’t a solo job by Allen to keep Buffalo in contention. A big onus also fell on young running back James Cook behind one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. Cook responded in kind, delivering a 1,000-yard season before taking it a step further in the playoffs.
Thanks to an excellent showing against the Kansas City Chiefs, his brother Dalvin Cook has high demands for the younger Cook’s upcoming contract extension.
Dalvin Cook Knows James Cook’s Value
Throughout the year, Allen received much praise for his game-breaking ground game and his poise when passing the ball. But Cook, too, had a large hand in the Bills notching 30 points in 10 straight games.
Not only did Cook rush for 1,009 yards, but he also tied for the most rushing touchdowns in the league with 16. It was an incredible year, which was magnified in the postseason.
In the Wild Card round against the Denver Broncos, Cook rushed for 120 yards and a touchdown as he dissected the Broncos’ elite defense with ease. Next, in the Divisional Round, he nearly went toe to toe with Derrick Henry, finishing with 67 yards compared to Henry’s 84. Yet, it was the AFC Championship Game where Cook shined the brightest.
Against Buffalo, Cook had 85 yards on just 13 carries, with 49 yards through the air as well. Additionally, he had two rushing touchdowns, the second of which was an incredible stretch into the end zone to add six to the Bills’ total.
Immediately, it prompted a response from his elder brother, Dalvin, who had a terrific start to his career in his own right with the Minnesota Vikings.
$20,000,000 / yr 💰 https://t.co/qYtzqO70NL
— Dalvin “4️⃣” Cook (@dalvincook) January 27, 2025
The elder Cook believed his brother was worthy of a big payday, captioning “$20,000,000 / yr,” the indication far from subtle.
The Bills star is entering the fourth and final year of his career and will be eligible for an extension. Next season, Cook’s base salary will be $5 million before he enters unrestricted free agency.
So far, it’s a no-brainer from Buffalo’s side to sign the 27-year-old to an extension. He’s been integral to their success this season and is incredible in high-pressure moments.
James Cook had 139 yards and 2 TD's on 16 touches. That's 8.6 yards per touch. He didn't get a touch on the final 6 play drive.
— Howard Simon (@hsimon62) January 27, 2025
The final drive for the Bills saw no action from Cook in their six plays, and they turned it over on downs after he had averaged 8.4 yards per play between his ground and receiving game, prompting the undying “what if” situation.
As Buffalo builds up some cap space after restricting themselves this season, Cook might be their first priority. Yet, it remains to be seen if he’s done enough to earn the paycheck his elder brother thinks he deserves.
