Bills’ James Cook sits out practice for ‘business’ reasons
Marshawn Lynch’s influence is perhaps understated.
Known for his “I’m just here so I won’t get fined” remarks ahead of Super Bowl 2014, the former running back’s shortness with the media is now being duplicated by Bills running back James Cook.
🎬 Get Free Netflix Logins
Claim your free working Netflix accounts for streaming in HD! Limited slots available for active users only.
- No subscription required
- Works on mobile, PC & smart TV
- Updated login details daily
Cook, who is seeking an extension with the team while currently slated to hit free agency in 2026, didn’t participate in a mandatory training camp practice on Sunday.
Why?
“Business,” he said, reportedly eight times.
Cook, the Bills’ starting running back for the last two seasons, is currently in the final year of his rookie contract and seeking a significant extension, which tends to be challenging for players at his position.
His current deal, signed in 2022 upon being made a second-round draft pick, is on a four-year, $5.83 million contract, with a $1.42 million signing bonus and $3.1 million fully guaranteed.
Cook is reportedly seeking a contract worth $15 million per year, which would place him among the highest-paid running backs in the NFL.
The former Georgia standout even said he’s confident the deal would get done as recently as earlier in training camp.
“I mean, however it happens, it’s going to get done. Wherever it happens at,” he said.
“Sometimes you can’t get on the same page or sometimes you’re trying to fit it in,” Bills general manager Brandon Beane said of Cook on July 24. “There’s times guys have left here that we really wanted. We just couldn’t make it work. But I can tell you, I’m hopeful, when we’re sitting here at next year’s training camp that James Cook is out there practicing and still representing the red, white and blue.”
Cook skipping a mandatory practice and citing “business” as his reason for not participating could intensify speculation about his future with the team.
To this point, the Bills have not publicly commented on Cook’s absence.
Last season, Cook ran for over 1,000 yards for a second consecutive season, scoring 18 touchdowns for the 2024 season.
In 2023, he ran for a career-best 1,122 yards.
Let’s be honest—no matter how stressful the day gets, a good viral video can instantly lift your mood. Whether it’s a funny pet doing something silly, a heartwarming moment between strangers, or a wild dance challenge, viral videos are what keep the internet fun and alive.