Bills Star James Cook validating new contract in Bills 3-0 start

Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP) — Just a month after a tense “hold-in” during training camp that led to a four-year, $48 million contract extension, Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is leaving little doubt that he’s worth every penny.

Three weeks into the season — three wins in the books — Cook has become the centerpiece of an offense that’s averaging 420 yards per game and eclipsing 30 points each outing.

The former second-round pick leads the NFL with four rushing touchdowns, including a 2-yard score in Buffalo’s 31–21 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night. That touchdown gave him seven straight games with a rushing TD, tying a Buffalo franchise record. Even more impressive, his 108 rushing yards against Miami snapped the Dolphins’ NFL-best streak of 35 games without allowing a 100-yard rusher.

“He looks like he’s been shot out of a cannon every time he touches it. He’s so fun to play with,” quarterback Josh Allen said. “He’s been such a catalyst for our offense. Special player.”

The Bills’ first offer to Cook reportedly averaged just $8 million per season, with GM Brandon Beane initially willing to revisit talks in the offseason. Instead, Buffalo locked him up early at an average of $12 million per year — currently ranking only seventh among NFL running backs, according to Spotrac. That number might soon look like a bargain.

Coach Sean McDermott didn’t hesitate when asked if Cook might be underpaid:

“From the coach’s lens, James Cook deserves every bit of this extension,” McDermott said. “He’s earned it. He’s one of the better running backs in the NFL, and he’s showing why week after week.”

Cook’s combination of power, elusiveness, and pass-catching has added balance to what was once a pass-heavy Buffalo attack. His presence also reduces Josh Allen’s carries — and the punishing hits that come with them.

The offense has been sharp even as the Bills’ young, banged-up defense allowed Miami to convert 10 of 15 third downs. Allen, the reigning MVP, has yet to commit a turnover and continues spreading the ball around: five different players, including Cook, have at least eight receptions, while rookie tight end Jason Hawes is one of four Bills with a touchdown catch.

One year after trading away Stefon Diggs and facing questions about who would emerge as the new offensive star, the answer has become clear. Cook, who co-led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns last season, is proving to be exactly the weapon Buffalo needed.