Buffalo Bills running back James Cook missed practice for the second consecutive day on August 7, 2023, as he seeks a contract extension. Currently in the final year of his rookie deal, Cook was present at training camp but did not participate, appearing instead in workout gear and a beanie. His brief visit to the practice field included walking by the sidelines and entering a portable toilet before heading back to the locker room.
Cook’s absence comes after he did not participate in practice the day before, though he was on the field for the duration of the session. After Sunday’s practice, the 25-year-old explained to reporters that his decision to sit out was due to “business.” This marks a change, as he previously took part in all eight of the team’s training camp practices and the mandatory minicamp, while also missing the voluntary offseason workouts.
During an appearance on local radio station WGR550, Bills general manager Brandon Beane expressed disappointment over the situation. He stated that the team was unaware of Cook’s decision to skip practice until just before it began. Beane remarked, “At the end of the day, I wish we weren’t here. This is my ninth season here. We’ve never had a player miss due to a contract or anything like that, so that’s disappointing for me.”
Communication remains ongoing between the Bills and Cook’s representatives. Despite discussions about a contract extension that began in the spring, no agreement has been reached. Other members of the 2022 draft class, including Christian Benford, Terrel Bernard, and Khalil Shakir, have successfully secured extensions this offseason, highlighting the stalled negotiations with Cook.
“We tried to get something done with [Cook], and unfortunately, it takes two,” Beane explained. “Both sides have to agree on what that number is, and obviously that hasn’t gotten there. I’m not sitting here saying you don’t pay running backs. I think you just have to find what the sweet spot is.”
Teammates Ty Johnson and Ray Davis indicated they were informed of Cook’s absence only when practice commenced. Johnson expressed understanding of Cook’s position, stating, “He’s trying to do what’s best for him. So, at the end of the day, we’re not in this league for a long time, so he’s trying to get his, and I respect that.”
The Bills will take an off day on August 8 before resuming practices at St. John Fisher University on August 9. The team’s ability to address Cook’s contract situation remains a focal point as the preseason continues.
