Blockbuster Trade Idea Sends Unhappy Bills RB James Cook Packing
By Nathan Dougherty
Updated May 29, 2025 at 6:12pm
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is reportedly seeking a lucrative contract extension, but one analyst believes the team might opt to trade him instead of meeting his hefty demands.
Cook is said to be eyeing a deal worth around $15 million annually. However, Bills general manager Brandon Beane has publicly stated that contract talks aren’t close and that the team has no current plans to negotiate a new deal.
With Cook entering the final year of his rookie contract and not ruling out a potential holdout, WGR 550’s Joe DiBiase floated a potential trade scenario: the Bills could send Cook to the Chicago Bears in exchange for running back D’Andre Swift and a fourth-round pick.
Potential Swap With Chicago Bears
DiBiase’s proposal would be a tough call, given Cook’s impressive production. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons and led the league in 2024 with 16 rushing touchdowns, making him a vital part of Buffalo’s offense alongside quarterback Josh Allen.
However, Swift could offer a short-term solution at a lower cost. His current contract only carries $1.3 million in guaranteed money in 2026, giving the Bills financial flexibility.
“Bills get a temporary starter at half the price Cook is asking,” DiBiase said. “Meanwhile, the Bears save $8 million in 2025 and $7 million in 2026, which they can use to pay Cook. And Ben Johnson gets a back he specifically chose over one he inherited. Both Swift and Cook turn 26 this year.”
Swift is coming off the most productive stretch of his career, amassing 2,018 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns across the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Cook’s Future in Buffalo Uncertain
Speaking with Poker News, Cook was vague about his contract situation and didn’t rule out the possibility of sitting out, although a prolonged holdout into the season appears unlikely due to limited negotiating leverage.
“I don’t really want to talk about it right now. I’d rather keep it to myself and let the business side handle things,” Cook said. “Whatever happens, happens. I’ll always try to be there for my teammates, and then we go play football.”
Cook was notably absent from the team’s voluntary OTAs this week—the only player missing—but Beane downplayed concerns, expressing confidence that Cook will be present when mandatory practices begin.
“He’s been in communication with people in our building,” Beane told Adam Schein on Mad Dog Sports Radio, via SI.com. “I have no doubt he’ll be ready to go when it’s time to play football.”
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