James Cook’s single word spoke volumes. When the Buffalo Bills running back skipped practice Sunday and reporters asked why, his response was simple: “Business.”
That calculated move has now forced the team’s front office into damage control mode, with General Manager Brandon Beane publicly addressing the contract standoff for the first time.
How Did Buffalo GM Brandon Beane React to James Cook’s Practice Absence?
Beane didn’t mince words when discussing Cook‘s decision to sit out practice. During his appearance on WGR, the Bills GM made it clear the team was caught off guard by Cook’s absence and learned about it just before practice began.
“This is my ninth season, and I’ve never had a player miss practice due to a contract, so it’s disappointing for me,” Beane said via Sal Capaccio of WGR. “At the end of the day, I wish we weren’t here.”
However, Beane kept the door open for future negotiations. He indicated that an agreement could still be reached before Cook hits free agency, even if no deal materializes during training camp this summer.
The situation has created tension between the organization and its 25-year-old running back, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Cook has been vocal about wanting a contract extension that reflects his production over the past two seasons.
Beane acknowledged that the team has been discussing a potential extension with Cook. Still, he emphasized that any deal must work within Buffalo’s salary cap structure, noting it has to “fit under an umbrella, not in a silo.”
What Led James Cook to Skip Buffalo’s Practice?
Cook’s absence marked his first time missing practice after participating in every mandatory session this offseason. He had been on the field for the first two days of training camp before making his statement Sunday.
Coming off a career-best season with 1,009 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, Cook believes he deserves compensation like a top-tier running back. Reports suggest he and his brother, Dalvin Cook, have referenced a target figure of $15 million annually.
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While Cook skipped voluntary minicamp earlier in the offseason, he had otherwise been fully engaged with team activities. His brief appearance on the sideline Sunday in street clothes, combined with his repeated use of the word “business” when questioned by reporters, sent a clear message about his contract priorities.
Bills RB James Cook asked why he didn’t practice today?
“Business.”
Followed up with if he’ll practice tomorrow: “Business.”
Kept repeating “business” over and over.
— Alaina Getzenberg (@agetzenberg) August 3, 2025
The timing of Cook’s stand puts additional pressure on Buffalo’s front office. With the 2025-26 season approaching and Cook’s contract set to expire after the campaign, both sides face important decisions about their future together.
Can the Buffalo Bills and James Cook Reach a Deal?
The Bills declined to provide official comment beyond Beane’s radio interview, but Cook’s message appears crystal clear — he wants financial security now, not later. With free agency still more than a year away, Buffalo holds some leverage in negotiations.
Yet Cook’s recent production gives him substantial bargaining power. Back-to-back Pro Bowl selections and 2,131 rushing yards over the past two years have established him as one of the league’s most productive backs. His breakout 2023 campaign proved he can handle a feature role in Buffalo’s offense.
Buffalo’s coaching staff hopes this situation resolves quickly without affecting team chemistry. Training camp is crucial for building timing and cohesion, especially with the Bills aiming for another deep playoff run.
As long as Cook maintains his stance, “business” may continue to define his relationship with the organization. The next few weeks will reveal whether both sides can find common ground or if this contract dispute will extend into the regular season.
