by: Skylar Barrons
James Cook has been the the topic of recent football discussion, with many concerned regarding his relationship with the Buffalo Bills franchise. In February of 2025, Cook publicly stated that he was interested in a new contract extension and wanted to pursue $15 million yearly. Besides for the punter, running backs are the lowest paid players in the National Football League, or NFL, and Cook has made it clear that he and other running backs deserve to be paid more.
With Cook missing the involuntary Organized Team Activities, or OTAs, and removing all Buffalo affiliation from his social media accounts, both fans and media alike questioned his return to the field; due to many still plagued by Stefon Diggs’ dramatic exit from the team.
Two important factors to remember when thinking of Cook’s situation are narratives and rumors. Sports reporters, like Adam Schefter, have painted a picture of Cook that makes him resemble a “diva” or the “bad guy”. Schefter unprovokingly reported that Cook has disconnected from the team and the city, when in reality, nothing that Cook has said led to that accusation. Cook, like all other major league sports players, would like to receive the monetary amount that is both deserved and earned. In the office, is your hardworking coworker wrong for asking the boss for a raise?
Moreover, many were distressed that Cook was planning to leave Buffalo as it was reported that he sold “his” Buffalo home. However, the house belonged to his brother, Dalvin Cook.
The Buffalo Bills running back has been fully transparent and expressive with regards to his wishes. As Josh Allen, quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, stated, Cook is easily one of the top five skilled running backs in the league when comparing statistics and numbers. With that being said, Cook has every right to inquire about higher pay.
Cook was present on June 10 for the mandatory OTAs, and for those like Schefter, it may have come as a surprise. However, if Cook was so “disconnected” as Schefter claims, would he have spoken to media via press conference after the OTA or would he have just went home? Would Cook still hold his annual St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute Youth Football Camp or would he have canceled?
Cook recognizes his own value and worth and that clearly makes many uncomfortable. Contrary to belief, Cook is happy for his teammates who are getting their desired pay and plans to remain connected to the Bills and the City of Buffalo. His goal is to bring this city a ring, and no it is not Allen’s new wedding ring, but rather a Super Bowl ring.
@skylarbarrons_
