BREAKING: GM Brandon Beane Provides James Cook Update That Bills Fans May Not Love

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook continues to establish himself as a key contributor to the team’s offense. Since being selected 63rd overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Georgia standout has earned two Pro Bowl nods. Cook had a standout 2024 season, setting a career high with 16 rushing touchdowns in 16 regular-season games. Now 25 years old, he is heading into the final year of his contract in 2025.

While the Bills have already extended cornerback Christian Benford, edge rusher Greg Rousseau, linebacker Terrel Bernard, and wide receiver Khalil Shakir, they are not currently negotiating an extension with Cook. General manager Brandon Beane confirmed at the league meetings in Palm Beach, Florida, that talks had taken place but did not progress toward a deal.

“I love [James] and am proud of his success, just like the other guys we extended,” Beane said, via Matthew Bove of WKBW-TV in Buffalo. “I don’t discuss negotiations, but his reps and he put it out there that we talked.

It didn’t lead to anything close to a deal, so we moved on to the players we were aligned with. At this point, we’re focused on the draft … I don’t see us making deals anytime soon.”

This was certainly the most significant update we heard today from Brandon Beane. Doesn't sound like James Cook will be getting an extension this year from the Bills. #BillsMafia @WKBW pic.twitter.com/LacbFHtAau

— Matthew Bové (@Matt_Bove) March 30, 2025

In February, Cook stated on Instagram that he is seeking a $15 million annual salary, which would rank him as the NFL’s third-highest-paid running back behind Christian McCaffrey (49ers) and Saquon Barkley (Eagles). While Cook is set to become a free agent in 2026, the Bills still have the option to use the franchise or transition tag to retain him.