BREAKING: Bills ‘Reward’ Running Back with lucrative New Contract
Could the Buffalo Bills offer a lucrative contract extension to one of their most productive running backs from last season after James Cook racked up 18 total touchdowns in 2024?
Well, they did extend a running back—but not the one most people anticipated.
Bills Re-Sign RB Ty Johnson
Many view securing a long-term deal with James Cook as a key priority for the Bills this offseason, but that didn’t stop Buffalo’s front office from locking in another key backfield contributor for 2025.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, running back Ty Johnson has agreed to a multi-year extension with the Bills, keeping him with the team through the 2026 season.
Fowler shared on X: “Running back Ty Johnson is returning to the #Bills on a two-year deal, per source. Johnson emerged as a versatile third-down back for Buffalo, now gets rewarded.”
Johnson has had a journeyman career in the NFL but carved out a valuable role in Buffalo’s offense last season, scoring four touchdowns on just 59 touches. He also averaged 5.2 yards per carry and 15.7 yards per reception, complementing Cook in the backfield.
Primarily used in passing situations in 2024, Johnson made the most of his opportunities when Cook and Ray Davis weren’t on the field.
Before joining the Bills, Johnson played for the Detroit Lions and New York Jets. His best season came in 2021 with the Jets, when he totaled 238 rushing yards, 372 receiving yards, and four touchdowns—the only other time he reached that mark in a season.
What Does This Deal Mean for James Cook?
Johnson’s contract is far from a major financial commitment for the Bills, as his two-year deal is reportedly worth $5 million. This shouldn’t cause much concern for Bills Mafia regarding the likelihood of James Cook receiving a contract extension in the near future.
However, Buffalo did make it a priority to re-sign or restructure several key contracts this offseason.
Josh Allen secured a massive six-year extension worth up to $330 million, including an astonishing $250 million guaranteed. As the reigning league MVP and the NFL’s most valuable position, Allen’s deal was an easy decision for the franchise.
Additionally, the Bills extended leading pass rusher Gregory Rousseau, top receiver Khalil Shakir, and linebacker Terrel Bernard earlier in the offseason—moves that could leave Cook feeling like the odd man out for now.
Cook was a standout performer throughout the season and playoffs. He totaled 1,267 yards on 239 touches, averaging an impressive 6.7 yards per touch in 2024.
His production surged in the postseason, racking up 272 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 53 carries over three games, along with six receptions for 64 yards.
Given his impact, one could argue that Cook is the second-most valuable player on Buffalo’s offense behind Allen, making his contract situation an important storyline heading into the 2025 season.