James Cook gets 100% real on decision to stay at mandatory minicamp as RB looks for new contract

James Cook is unhappy with the Buffalo Bills and has made no point of hiding his feelings. The running back is in the final year of his rookie contract that he signed in 2022. He's looking for an extension, but the team has not yet reached an agreement with him.

Cook is trying to add pressure on the team for what will be a crucial year for the offense. Coming off a season where Josh Allen was voted the MVP, the Bills know that they need every bit of help to dethrone Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

The running back did not report to the voluntary parts of the offseason. However, Buffalo is hosting its mandatory minicamp this week, and he reported to the facilities. Speaking to reporters, James Cook revealed the reason for ending his holdout.

“I like my money, you know? Definitely do,” Cook said on Tuesday. “So, that’s why I’m here.”

“I mean, why not? I’m here. I’m part of the team,” Cook said on why he participated. “I’m a leader. So, just got to practice and get the job done.”

The Organized Team Activities (OTAs) are deemed a voluntary part of the offseason. This means that players can't be fined by their teams if they decide not to participate; however, if a player fails to report for the mandatory minicamp or the training camp, teams can fine players for each day of absence.

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Albert Breer calls for James Cook to sign extension similar to Derrick Henry

Many star running backs signed new deals during the offseason, with Derrick Henry signing an extension with the Baltimore Ravens following his excellent season.

For Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, this could be a deal to serve as a baseline in negotiations for James Cook:

"Henry’s contract could be one comp. He had one year left at $7 million going into this offseason. The Ravens, as part of a two-year extension, gave him a $7 million raise for this year and $11 million fully guaranteed next year, with a de facto $12 million team option in 2027. Cook is under contract at $5.7 million for this year, so it’s feasible to look at it and say such a short-term extension could work for everyone — and he would be up for a new deal again at 28."

During an Instagram live after the 2024 season, James Cook fixed a comment stating that he wanted to sign a new deal worth $15 million per year.