PREPORT: James Cook Contract Saga Leads Bills To Draft Replacement

The Buffalo Bills and running back James Cook are shaping up to be a major storyline this offseason. Cook is seeking a new contract to avoid playing out the final year of his rookie deal. While Buffalo has already extended key players such as Josh Allen, Greg Rousseau, Khalil Shakir, and Terrel Bernard, Cook has yet to receive an extension despite expressing his desire for one. He reportedly wants to be among the highest-paid running backs at around $15 million per year, but with the Bills having just $2.2 million in cap space (per Over The Cap), a new deal seems unlikely.

In Ian Valentino’s latest mock draft for AtoZ Sports, Buffalo selects Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson in the first round, which could signal the end of Cook’s tenure with the team. Valentino questions whether the Bills would commit $15 million annually to Cook, suggesting they would be better off trading him for a draft pick and replacing him with a rookie on a more affordable contract.

Henderson, a standout at Ohio State, finished his college career with 1,116 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns while helping the Buckeyes win a championship. Recognized as one of the top pass-protecting backs in this draft class, his skill set would likely appeal to Bills general manager Brandon Beane and quarterback Josh Allen. Seen as a reliable third-down back, Henderson could step in as Cook’s replacement and immediately contribute to Buffalo’s offense. His quickness and versatility would allow offensive coordinator Brady to utilize him in multiple ways, complementing the Bills’ “everybody eats” approach. While moving on from Cook may not be ideal, Henderson offers the team a younger, cost-effective option ready to make an impact in the AFC East.