Update on Bills’ Contract Talks With James Cook Following Derrick Henry’s New Deal
The contract negotiations between the Buffalo Bills and running back James Cook continue to be a major storyline this offseason—and they just got even more complicated.
The latest twist comes courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens, who agreed to a two-year, $30 million extension with star running back Derrick Henry. The deal, which includes $25 million guaranteed, was first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Henry’s new contract gives him an average annual salary of $15 million, making him the third-highest-paid running back in the league—trailing only Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley.
That $15 million figure is especially significant, as it matches exactly what Cook has reportedly been seeking from Buffalo throughout the offseason.
Cook, who led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns last season and has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns, views himself as deserving of a similar payday. While he may not be quite at the superstar level of Henry or Barkley, Cook believes he’s earned comparable compensation.
Speaking earlier this week at a poker event, Cook addressed the situation:
“However it works out, it works out,” he said. “I just make sure the business is the business and do whatever I can to always be there for my teammates. Then we go play football.”
Henry’s deal doesn’t necessarily accelerate Buffalo’s negotiations with Cook—but it does complicate them. With Henry now earning $15 million annually, Cook has even more leverage to argue that his asking price is fair.
And for the Bills, the pressure to find a resolution is only growing.
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