Bills’ James Cook contract decision should’ve played out like Rams’ Kyren Williams extension

Bills’ James Cook contract decision should’ve played out like Rams’ Kyren Williams extension originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Buffalo Bills have locked in one of their young offensive stars for the long haul. 

According to Tom Pelissero, Buffalo has agreed to a four-year, $48 million contract with Pro Bowl running back James Cook, including $30 million guaranteed. The deal keeps Cook in Western New York through the 2029 season.

It’s a massive payday and one that is more than the deal the Los Angeles Rams just gave Kyren Williams, who signed a three-year, $33 million extension with $23 million guaranteed earlier this month.

Kyren Williams has been one of the NFL’s most consistent and productive backs over the last two seasons. He’s logged back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns, led the league in touches per game, and has been the clear focal point of the Rams’ offense.

James Cook, on the other hand, is coming off a breakout year in 2024 with 16 total touchdowns, but that’s his only season at that level.

Before last year, he was a complementary piece, although he did have  and he hasn’t shown multiple years of sustained dominance.

I wouldn’t have paid Cook more than Williams. While Cook’s 2024 season was impressive, I’m not convinced he’s going to replicate that kind of touchdown production. 

This is still Josh Allen’s team, and the Bills’ offense runs through their quarterback. Cook is a solid piece, but I think Buffalo could find similar production from another back at a much lower price.