James Cook Lists His House for Sale Amidst Delayed Contract Negotiations

The Buffalo Bills are facing an interesting situation with running back James Cook. During the recent NFL meetings in Orlando, General Manager Brandon Beane expressed that Cook is unlikely to receive a new contract anytime soon. This has sparked some action on Cook’s end—his home in Orchard Park is now up for sale.

Cook bought the house in 2022 through an LLC managed by his brother, Dalvin, but now it’s on the market. He is currently signed for the 2025 season, earning $5.3 million in the last year of his rookie contract. However, Cook is aiming for a significant pay increase, wanting at least $15 million per year.

A holdout isn’t a good option for Cook. According to the current labor agreement, absenting himself would cost him a fourth year of service, making him ineligible for free agency in 2026. Instead, a hold-in could be more likely. This means he would show up but refuse to practice until a deal is reached or until the team insists on it.

Looking ahead, the franchise tag might be a possibility for Cook next season. This scenario echoes what happened with Saquon Barkley, who also faced a delay in securing a second contract.

At just 25 years old, Cook has already made his mark as a two-time Pro Bowler, tallying 18 touchdowns in the 2024 season. His skills on the field make it imperative for both the player and the team to navigate this contract situation carefully.

It’s common for teams to struggle with contract negotiations, especially when a player is seeking a salary that matches their performance level. Recent statistics show that running backs are increasingly being paid less than in previous years, with many teams opting for pay cuts rather than extensions. This trend is concerning for players like Cook, who wish to secure their financial futures.

With the NFL season approaching, all eyes will be on how the Bills and Cook handle this situation. This could significantly affect both player morale and team dynamics moving forward.

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