Bills running back James Cook has signed a four-year contract extension, keeping him with the team through 2029. The deal was finalized late Tuesday night, with both sides reaching an agreement before signing the paperwork Wednesday morning.
General manager Brandon Beane described the negotiation process: “I think it was roughly 11 o’clock or so last night when we were able to say both sides are good with this, and we’ll get it signed in the morning,” Beane said.
Cook, drafted by Buffalo in the second round of the 2022 draft, had a standout season in 2024. He scored 16 rushing touchdowns, tying for the most in the league and matching O.J. Simpson’s franchise record set in 1975.
Cook expressed his satisfaction with staying in Buffalo: “This is the place that drafted me. The fans are good, the community is good, and just the team we got, man, we play as one. We are brothers and we have a good bond. It all shows they got my back,” shared Cook.
He joins fellow members of his draft class—Khalil Shakir, Terrel Bernard, and Christian Benford—who also signed extensions this offseason.
“You guys know our motto here. We want to draft and develop and re-sign,” shared Beane.
Beane emphasized his confidence in these players’ continued development: “I don’t think any of these players that we extended have hit their ceiling. I don’t think they’re on the backside of their career. We’re looking for these guys to continue to ascend as players at their respective positions,” he said.
During negotiations, Cook held in from August 3 until August 12 but remained involved with team activities.
“He was at walk-throughs, he was at meetings, and he was just there physically, like he was engaged in those things, and engaged with his teammates,” shared Beane.
The Bills wanted Cook to return to practice before resuming contract talks; he ended his hold-in Tuesday by returning to the field.
“I had to show my loyalty to my team and my teammates. They always got my back, so I got their back, too. So just showing them that I’m willing to not be a problem … and just practice was important,” Cook said.
With this extension completed, Buffalo retains another key player developed within its system.
“Love Jimbo … he’s an explosive talent … I’m so proud of where he has grown on and off the field, from the day we drafted him to now rewarding him with this extension,” Beane said.
Teammates expressed support for Cook’s new deal. Linebacker Joe Andreessen commented: “James is one of our brothers, and we want what’s best for him. We were happy for him when we heard,” shared Andreessen.
Cornerback Christian Benford also praised Cook’s perseverance: “I’m happy for him, he stuck it out. I thank the Lord that he got something. That he’s happy with. I’m blessed and honored for him. Benford said. ‘He’s a great kid, hard worker.'”
Looking ahead to the season after resolving contract matters, Cook stated: “Now it’s time for us to go play football and show them why we belong here,” added Cook.
