As the NFL approaches free agency and the draft, with teams evaluating their possible rosters and salary cap conditions, another significant aspect to consider is the contract extensions for players who are exceeding expectations on their rookie contracts. Introducing Buffalo running back, James Cook.
Following a fantastic season in which Cook accumulated more than 1200 yards of offense and scored 18 touchdowns, earning a spot in his second consecutive Pro Bowl, the third-year player shocked both fans and the Bills when he used social media to announce his desired price for a contract extension.
One individual who undoubtedly recognizes the significance of the running back role — and has been vocal about its worth — is ex-Rams Super Bowl Champion and MVP, Marshall Faulk. Faulk was a guest on The Rich Eisen Show on Friday and was asked directly, “If you’re the Bills, do you compensate [Cook]?”
“You’re absolutely correct.” Faulk remarked, “I can’t understand why not… this young man is extraordinary.” I wasn’t aware that he could run inside, utilizing his pads, with the strength he showed in games suited for playoff football. I was simply struck by him…the intellect, grasp of the game — it’s on another level. “Next stage.”In recent years, the worth of running backs in the NFL has appeared to be decreasing.
This previous season, though, certainly changed that view with the prominent achievements of Saquon Barkley and other standout backs like the Lions’ Jahmyr Gibbs and Rams’ Kyren Williams — all following the 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey’s phenomenal 2023 season and earnings.
Although Cooks’ initial contract has him earning $5,265,000 in 2025, Spotrac estimates his worth to be around $10.2 million annually. Bills GM Brandon Beane faces challenging choices as the team aims to address several roster gaps this offseason in hopes of finally reaching the Super Bowl. If it depended on Faulk, the first action Beane ought to take is to compensate Cook.
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