The Bills offensive line has given James Cook room to operate this season, as Cook has been hit behind the line of scrimmage on just 32.9% of his carries, the 2nd-lowest mark among running backs (min. 100 carries).

Three-TD day against tough defense

Cook rushed 22 times for 107 yards and two touchdowns while bringing in two of three targets for four yards and another score in the Bills' 35-31 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

Analysis: Facing a notoriously stingy Patriots run defense, Cook carefully picked his spots throughout the afternoon and consistently churned out productive gains. He was a critical contributor to the Bills' second-half rally, recording three- and 11-yard touchdown runs. Those scoring scampers were preceded by a five-yard scoring grab with just under two minutes remaining in the first half, giving Cook his first three-TD tally of the season. The star running back figures to be heavily involved again in a…read more

Tops century mark against Cincy

Cook carried the ball 18 times for 80 yards and caught both his targets for 31 yards in Sunday's 39-34 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: The star running back had a little trouble holding onto the ball in snowy, cold conditions, committing two fumbles and losing one, but he reached 100 scrimmage yards for a fourth straight game and the sixth time in the last seven contests. Over that stretch, Cook has piled up 771 rushing yards and three TDs on the ground while adding a 17-178-1 line on 17 targets. He'll face a much tougher test in Week 15 against the Patriots' stingy run defense.

Huge gains on 35 touches Sunday

Cook took 32 carries for 144 yards and a lost fumble while bringing in all three of his targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 26-7 win over Pittsburgh.

Analysis: Cook set new season highs in carries and touches while gashing the Steelers' defense for 177 yards on the road. Buffalo's workhorse also finished as the team's leading receiver while accounting for 48 percent of the offense's net yards Sunday. The only blemish on yet another dominant rushing performance was a pair of fumbles, only one of which was scooped up by the defense. Cook had coughed up just one fumble over his previous 11 contests, which looks minuscule standing next to the nine…read more

Nets 129 total yards, TD in loss

Cook rushed 17 times for 116 yards and a touchdown while bringing in all three targets for 13 yards in the Bills' 23-19 loss to the Texans on Thursday night.

Analysis: Cook managed his sixth 100-yard effort on the ground this season while posting his first rushing touchdown since Week 8 via a 45-yard run to cap off Buffalo's opening possession of the contest. The star running back continued to consistently generate solid gains against a tough Texans defense the rest of the night as well, and the productive performance locked in his third consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season. Cook next takes aim at the Steelers' inconsistent run defense in a Week 13 road…read more

Claws way to over 100 total yards

Cook rushed 16 times for 48 yards and secured all three targets for 66 yards in the Bills' 44-32 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Cook unsurprisingly found running room at a premium against a stingy Buccaneers front, but he was able to salvage his fantasy day with his best work of the season as a receiver. The fourth-year pro contributed a 25-yard touchdown reception on his three catches, and he finished with a season-high receiving yardage total. The going doesn't get any easier for Cook in Week 12, however, as the Bills face a tough Texans defense on the road in a Thursday night matchup.

Opportunities capped in loss

Cook rushed 13 times for 53 yards and brought in all five targets for 24 yards in the Bills' 30-13 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Cook was involved as a receiver at his highest clip since Week 1, as the Bills were already down 16-0 at halftime and therefore were in catch-up mode throughout the second half. The talented back did run hard with his limited opportunities on the ground, but he finished tied for a season low in carries and also lost a fumble in Dolphins territory early in the second quarter that helped lead to a Miami field goal. The downturn was drastic after Cook had rushed for 330 yards and two touchdowns…read more

Clear for Week 10

Cook (ankle) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game at Miami.

Analysis: After Cook sat out Wednesday's practice due to a foot injury, coach Sean McDermott told Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com that the running back's health concern emerged during this past Sunday's win against the Chiefs and that he'd been sore in the meantime. Cook followed up Wednesday's DNP with a limited session Thursday and a full practice Friday, thereby clearing him for Week 10 action. He'll be facing a Dolphins defense Sunday against whom he went for 118 yards from scrimmage and one rushing TD…read more

Limited in return to practice

Cook (ankle) was limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: On the heels of logging a 'DNP' on Wednesday, Cook is trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's game against the Dolphins after returning to a capped session one day later. The Bills' top RB now will have one more chance to upgrade his participation level before the team assigns Week 10 injury designations Friday.

Returns to practice

Cook (ankle) was present for Thursday's practice, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook didn't practice Wednesday due to a listed ankle issue, but the running back's return to the field a day later is a positive indicator with regard to his Week 10 availability. The Bills' next injury report will clarify Cook's official participation level Thursday.

Not practicing Wednesday

Cook (ankle/foot) won't practice Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Per Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com, coach Sean McDermott noted the injury that sidelined Cook Wednesday popped up during this past Sunday's win over the Chiefs, while adding that the running back has been sore the last couple days. Cook thus has two more chances to practice ahead of this weekend's game against the Dolphins, but if he's limited or out in Week 10, added snaps would be available for Ty Johnson and Ray Davis.

Cracks century mark against KC

Cook rushed for 114 yards on 27 carries while catching his only target for 11 yards in Sunday's 28-21 win over the Chiefs.

Analysis: Cook set a new high-water mark for touches in a single game this season (28) while finishing with a game-high 125 yards from scrimmage. The talented rusher did all of the heavy lifting for the Bills between the 20s, allowing for backup Ty Johnson and QB Josh Allen to hit pay dirt on the ground Sunday. Cook entered Sunday's contest averaging a touchdown scored per game this season, so managers will have to live with "just" another 100-yard performance (his fifth on the year). Look for Cook to…read more

Career-best performance in win

Cook rushed 19 times for 216 yards and two touchdowns in the Bills' 40-9 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Analysis: Cook's yardage total was unsurprisingly a career-best figure, one the fourth-year back accomplished with seven runs of 10-plus yards, including a 64-yard touchdown scamper just past the midway point of the second quarter. The talented back added a 21-yard scoring run with just under five minutes remaining in the third quarter, and he was able to take an early seat thanks to Buffalo's expansive lead. Cook has now eclipsed the 100-yard mark in four of the last six games following a 44-yard season…read more

Solid rushing night in loss

Cook rushed 17 times for 87 yards and didn't draw a target in the Bills' 24-14 loss to the Falcons on Monday night.

Analysis: Cook enjoyed a solid night on the ground despite game script working against the run as the game unfolded, bouncing back nicely from a 49-yard showing in the Week 5 loss to the Patriots. However, he failed to draw a target for the first time this season after not hauling in the one pass thrown his way Week 5, a relatively rare slump for him as a pass catcher. Cook's fantasy value remains significantly elevated in all formats, however, and he draws a favorable matchup on the road against the…read more

Held in check by New England

Cook rushed the ball 15 times for 49 yards in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Patriots. He did not catch his only target.

Analysis: Cook endured his worst game of the season both as a rusher and receiver. His longest rush of the day went for only nine yards, and he also went without a catch for the first time on the campaign. Positively, Cook still dominated opportunity out of Bills' backfield, with Ray Davis and Ty Johnson combining to see only four rushing attempts with zero targets. Cook should have a strong chance of bouncing back in Week 6 against Atlanta.

Eclipses century mark in win

Cook rushed 22 times for 117 yards and a touchdown while bringing in three of four targets for 18 yards in the Bills' 31-19 win over the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: The Bills arguably underperformed most of the afternoon given their status as significant home favorites, but Cook's play didn't disappoint. The speedy back was over the 100-yard mark on the ground for the third straight game, and he extended his season-opening streak of rushing touchdowns to four games with a one-yard scoring run late in the first quarter. Cook is averaging 5.4 yards per carry overall, even when factoring in an average of 3.4 yards per tote Week 1 against the Ravens. The…read more

Eclipses 100 total yards in win

Cook rushed 19 times for 108 yards and a touchdown and brought in all three targets for 10 yards in the Bills' 31-21 win over the Dolphins on Thursday night.

Analysis: Cook served as the ideal complement to the exploits of Josh Allen through the air (228 yards, three touchdowns). The star running back had a game-long run of 26 yards, so he was able to consistently find running room throughout the night. The 2022 second-round pick also recorded his fourth rushing touchdown of the season on a two-yard run to cap off the first drive of the second half, and he'll take a stellar figure of 5.4 yards per carry into a Week 4 home matchup against the Saints on Sunday,…read more

Two TDs in Week 2 win

Cook rushed 21 times for 132 yards and two touchdowns while catching his only target for three yards in Sunday's 30-10 win over the Jets.

Analysis: Cook once again operated as the clear lead back, as Ray Davis and Ty Johnson combined for just 30 scrimmage yards, with most of the backups' opportunities coming after the game was well in hand. Buffalo capitalized on a drive-extending roughing the passer penalty to open the scoring with a one-yard Cook rushing touchdown, and he added a 44-yard touchdown run in the second quarter to extend the lead to 20-0. Cook's versatile skill set allows him to stay heavily involved regardless of game…read more

Set for Week 2 action

Cook (hamstring) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's contest at the Jets.

Analysis: Cook was limited at Wednesday's practice due to a hamstring issue, but a full walkthrough Thursday and uncapped session Friday has cleared him to handle his typical role as the Bills' No. 1 running back. In a season-opening win against the Ravens, he earned 56 percent of the offensive snaps and turned 18 touches into 102 yards from scrimmage and one rushing TD, while reserve RBs Ray Davis and Ty Johnson combined for four touches for 25 total yards.

Full participant Thursday

Cook (hamstring) was listed as a full participant in Thursday's walk-through.

Analysis: Cook was limited by a hamstring injury Wednesday, but Thursday's full participation listing suggests he isn't in any danger of sitting out against the Jets in Week 2. In the Bills' season-opening win over Baltimore, Cook turned 18 touches into 102 scrimmage yards and a touchdown while Ray Davis and Ty Johnson combined for 25 yards on four touches.

Logs limited practice

Cook (hamstring) was listed as limited in Wednesday's practice.

Analysis: In the Bills' 41-40 win over the Ravens in Week 1, Cook logged 48 of a possible 85 snaps on offense en route to carrying 13 times for 44 yards and a TD while catching all five of his targets for 58 yards. It's unclear if his hamstring issue stems from Buffalo's season opener or is the result of something that occurred Wednesday. Either way, Cook -- who is backed up by Ray Davis and Ty Johnson -- has two more chances to work fully ahead of Sunday's contest against the Jets.

Tops 100 scrimmage yards with TD

Cook rushed 13 times for 44 yards and a touchdown while catching all five of his targets for 58 yards in Sunday's 41-40 win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Cook heated up after a quiet first half. He scored a two-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter and came two yards shy of tacking on a receiving touchdown in the fourth quarter, settling for a 51-yard gain on the play. Cook led the team in rushing yards and exceeded 100 scrimmage yards while Ty Johnson and Ray Davis combined for just three carries and three targets, so Cook unsurprisingly remains the clear lead back after signing a four-year, $48 million extension in August. Buffalo played…read more

Four-year extension with Bills

Cook and the Bills have reached an agreement on a four-year contract extension for the running back, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Per the report, Cook's four-year pact is for $48 million and includes $30 million guaranteed. The 2022 second-rounder, who had returned to practice Tuesday following a four day 'hold-in' is thus a candidate to play against the Bears on Sunday after not seeing any action in the Bills' preseason opener this past Saturday. As the 2025 regular season approaches, Cook remains the clear leader of a Buffalo backfield that also includes Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.

In line to practice Tuesday

Cook is expected to practice Tuesday according to Bills head coach Sean McDermott, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook is seeking a contract extension and hasn't practiced in about a week as part of a "hold in" strategy. McDermott said Tuesday that "things have changed," leading to Cook's return to practice, and that "the information that we're getting is that he's moving in the right direction," per Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News. Those comments hint at positive developments in the contract negotiations, though McDermott cautioned that it's too soon to say the running back had ended his hold-in,…read more

Doesn't play Saturday

Cook, who was in uniform during pre-game warmups, didn't play in Saturday's 34-25 preseason loss to the Giants, Jonah Bronstein of wivb.com reports.

Analysis: After reporting to training camp and fully participating for the first two weeks, Cook had been "holding in" since Sunday, citing "business" reasons for his non-participation in the team's last four practices. On Saturday, however, Cook took one rep with the Bills' first-team offense during warmups before sitting out a contest that top QB Josh Allen was held out of. Per Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com, coach Sean McDermott noted that he had a conversation with Cook on Friday, with the running…read more

Spotted in warmups Saturday

Cook participated in warmups ahead of Saturday's preseason opener against the Giants, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: While it's unclear if the running back will see any action in the contest, the fact the Cook is in uniform Saturday after having been sitting out practice of late is worth noting. Cook, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract with the Bills, is seeking an extension with the team.

No return to practice

Cook (contract) isn't practicing Thursday, Alex Brasky of Bills Digest reports.

Analysis: Cook is out for a fourth straight practice, after making it clear over the weekend that he was sitting out (or "holding in") for "business" reasons. Bills coach Sean McDermott said Thursday morning that he expected Cook to practice, but the running back wasn't with his teammates when they went out on the field for the start of the session. Ray Davis and Ty Johnson will continue taking most of the first-team snaps in Cook's absence.

No practice again

Cook (contract) won't practice Wednesday, Matt Parrino of The Syracuse Post-Standard reports.

Analysis: The hold-in extends to a third straight practice, with Cook showing up to the team facility but refraining from on-field activities for what he's called "business" reasons. He's entering the final year of his rookie contract and seeking an extension after finishing the 2024 regular season with 18 touchdowns in 16 games. Cook took part in June minicamp and the first week-plus of training camp, seemingly without limitations.

Not practicing Monday

Cook is present for Monday's practice but not in uniform as he seeks a new contract, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: He reported for June minicamp and the start of training camp before switching things up Sunday and seemingly moving to a "hold in" approach -- whereby he shows up to practice and meetings but doesn't do on-field work. When reporters asked him Sunday why he wasn't practicing, Cook simply said "business," a one-word answer that was also his response to the beat writers' other questions. In any case, his absence from practice frees up more first-team reps for Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.

No practice for 'business' reasons

Cook didn't practice Sunday and said that the reason was "business" when asked after the session, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook is seeking a contract extension, but he reported for training camp and had previously been participating in practice. The star running back worked out on an exercise bike Sunday but didn't take part in team drills, per Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 Buffalo. Cook's explanation for his lack of participation may suggest that he's planning to "hold in," meaning he could show up to practice but not actually take part while he remains without an extension. When Cook was asked Sunday if…read more

Still wants new contract

Despite reporting for training camp this week and practicing fully with the team, Cook said Thursday that he still wants a contract extension, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: "We have talks," Cook said. "I mean, I deserve what I want, I need, and it's going to eventually happen." Cook, however, realizes the extension he desires may not come from Buffalo. "I mean, however it happens, it's going to get done," Cook continued. "Wherever it happens at." Cook has said he wants "$15 million" per year on a new deal. The two sides continue to have conversations, but nothing appears imminent. Cook may be forced to play out the final year of his rookie contract and deal with…read more

Practices fully Wednesday

Cook participated fully in Wednesday's training camp practice, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook, who's seeking a new deal with the Bills, wasn't in attendance for voluntary workouts or OTAs in the early spring but was present for the team's mandatory minicamp last month, and he is now "ready to go" for training camp, per coach Sean McDermott, via Alec White of the Bills' official site. As the coming campaign approaches, Cook remains locked in as Buffalo's top back, with Ray Davis and Ty Johnson set to reprise their complementary roles in the team's backfield.

Reporting for camp

Cook (contract dispute) is reporting for the start of training camp but won't necessarily be a full participant, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Seeking an extension in the final year of his rookie contract, Cook stayed away from the Bills throughout OTAs before showing up for mandatory minicamp in mid-June. Reports back in June weren't optimistic about progress on an extension, but Pelissero notes that Cook still wants to stay in Buffalo. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network suggests Cook may end up "holding in," which would mean attending practices and meetings (and avoiding fines) but not actually practicing.

Shows up for minicamp

Cook is present for the start of Buffalo's mandatory minicamp Tuesday, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Cook skipped voluntary OTAs amid his ongoing negotiations for a new contract with the Bills, but the 2022 second-round pick won't opt to hold out from mandatory minicamp, for which he would accrue fines. His presence at minicamp could indicate that contract talks have progressed beyond the point of being a "stalemate," as Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network described the situation earlier in June. After rushing 207 times for 1,009 yards and a career-high 16 touchdowns across 16 regular-season…read more

Not certain to attend minicamp

Cook and the Bills "aren't close" to an agreement on an extension, and it's unclear if the running back will hold out of mandatory minicamp, which begins Tuesday, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Wolfe describes extension negotiations between the two sides as "a stalemate" and suggests that Cook could hold out of minicamp, which would likely result in a fine. The star running back already missed OTAs in both April and May, though those workouts were voluntary as opposed to the upcoming mandatory camp. Cook is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is seeking an extension after racking up a career-high 16 rushing touchdowns and adding two receiving TDs across 16…read more

Not at voluntary OTAs

Cook wasn't present for Tuesday's voluntary organized team activities, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN reports.

Analysis: While Cook isn't participating in the Bills' voluntary OTAs, coach Sean McDermott noted that he's remained in contact with the running back, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal and seeking a contract extension. "Yeah, we're staying in touch, like you'd expect a player and a coach to do," McDermott said of the 2022 second-rounder. "So, James will be here when he's ready to be here and we move forward." While it remains to be seen whether Cook will be on the field for the team's…read more

Skipping voluntary workouts

Cook is not present for the start of voluntary OTAs on Tuesday, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 Buffalo reports.

Analysis: Bills general manager Brandon Beane said it's "not fair" to assume Cook's absence at voluntary OTAs is related to his desire for a new contract, adding that "he'll be ready to go" for mandatory offseason activities. Nonetheless, coming off a 2024 campaign in which he scored 18 touchdowns (16 rushing) despite playing just 48 percent of offensive snaps in his 16 regular-season appearances, Cook has been open about his desire for both a substantial extension and increased playing time. Still,…read more

Wants extension, more playing time

Cook is seeking a contract extension and said he'd like to get more playing time as well, Ryan Talbot of newyorkupstate.com reports.

Analysis: Cook scored 18 touchdowns during the 2024 regular season despite playing just 48 percent of snaps in his 16 appearances. He got a carry or target on 50.5 percent of his snaps, which helped make up for the modest playing time and allowed for a second straight 1,000-yard rushing season. He's perhaps the most obvious TD regression candidate in the league for 2025, but he can make up for any losses in per-touch productivity if the Bills give him a larger workload. That's far from guaranteed, of…read more

Finishes season with 19 rushing TDs

Cook rushed 13 times for 85 yards and two touchdowns while catching all three of his targets for 49 yards in Sunday's 32-29 loss to the Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

Analysis: Cook gave the Bills a 10-7 lead with a six-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter and put Buffalo back in front, 22-21, by stretching the ball out for a one-yard touchdown on fourth down just before his knee went down in the third quarter. That turned out to be Buffalo's last lead of the season, as the Chiefs advanced to a third consecutive Super Bowl thanks to an 11-7 scoring edge in the fourth quarter while the Josh Allen-led Bills fell to 0-4 against Kansas City in the playoffs. Cook…read more

Posts 82 scrimmage yards in win

Cook rushed 17 times for 67 yards and caught all three of his targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 27-25 AFC divisional-round win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Cook tied for the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns in the regular season and added another touchdown on the ground in the wild-card round against the Broncos, but he didn't account for any of Buffalo's three rushing scores in the AFC divisional round. Ray Davis got the call for a one-yard touchdown on the opening drive, and Josh Allen tacked on two first-half touchdowns with his legs, but Cook easily led the team in rushing yards, as no teammate had more than 31. Cook also finished second…read more

Romps over Denver in wild-card win

Cook carried the ball 23 times for 120 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-7 wild-card win over the Broncos.

Analysis: The third-year RB extended his touchdown streak to five games with a five-yard scamper early in the second quarter that put the Bills in the lead for good at 10-7. Cook erupted for 18 total TDs in the regular season, second in the NFL to Detroit's Jahmyr Gibbs, and his role in the Buffalo offense is only going to grow in importance in the postseason. Cook faces a tougher matchup in the divisional round, however, as the Bills get ready to host a Ravens squad that allowed the fewest rushing yards…read more

Finds end zone again Sunday

Cook carried the ball 10 times for 28 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-16 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: The Bills rested a lot of key players in Week 18 with the No. 2 seed in the AFC already locked up, but Cook merely saw his usual workload reduced, as he split touches in the backfield with Ray Davis. Cook still saw enough action to score his 16th rushing TD on a one-yard plunge in the third quarter, tying him with Derrick Henry and later Jahmyr Gibbs for the NFL lead, and he got just enough yardage to put him over 1,000 for the second straight season. Cook has gotten into the end zone in four…read more

Scores 15th rushing TD

Cook rushed 15 times for 53 yards and a touchdown and wasn't targeted in Sunday's 40-14 win over the Jets.

Analysis: Cook's yardage plummeted after he rushed for at least 100 yards in three of the previous four games. He ran in a one-yard touchdown in the third quarter for his 15th rushing touchdown of the campaign. Cook may not get a chance to add to that total in Week 18 against the Patriots since Buffalo has locked in the No. 2 seed and could rest its starters.

Another excellent performance

Cook rushed the ball 11 times for 100 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-21 win over the Patriots. He added three receptions on three targets for 26 yards and an additional touchdown.

Analysis: Cook turned the game around for Buffalo by scoring consecutive touchdowns in the second and third quarters. The first came on an explosive 46-yard scamper through the middle of the New England defense while he broke through several arm tackles. He then caught a short, four-yard touchdown to tie the game. Despite being limited to around 15 touches per matchup, Cook has eclipsed 100 yards from scrimmage in three of four contests while finding the end zone a total of five times since Buffalo's…read more

Eclipses century mark in wild win

Cook rushed 14 times for 105 yards and two touchdowns and brought in his only target for 28 yards in the Bills' 48-42 win over the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Cook got in on the fun of the Bills' second straight 40-plus-point barrage, crossing the goal line on the ground from six and 41 yards out in the second and third quarters, respectively. The third-year pro has two of his three 100-yard efforts on the season within the last three games, and his receiving yardage total Sunday was his highest since Week 3. Cook draws a highly favorable matchup against the Patriots at home in Week 16.

Limited opportunity in loss

Cook rushed the ball six times for 20 yards in Sunday's 44-42 loss to the Rams. He added two receptions on two targets for nine yards.

Analysis: Josh Allen was the entire Buffalo offense, as he led the team in rushing attempts and yards while also scoring a trio of times on the ground from one yard away. Allen's usage combined with a negative game script left little opportunity for Cook, who saw his fewest rushing attempts of the season. More concerning was his lack of involvement as a receiver despite Allen taking to the air 37 times. Cook has now failed to reach 50 rushing yards in four of his last seven games.

Scampers for snowy 65-yard TD

Cook rushed 14 times for 107 yards and a touchdown while catching his only target for 13 yards in Sunday's 35-10 win over the 49ers.

Analysis: Cook outraced San Francisco's defense down the sideline for a 65-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter after watching Ray Davis cap the previous drive with a five-yard touchdown run. Buffalo's run-heavy game script helped Cook exceed 100 rushing yards for only the second time this season, as he came four yards short of his Week 8 season high against the Seahawks. Cook also raised his rushing touchdown total to 11, which is a marked improvement from his two rushing touchdowns apiece in…read more

Scoring offsets inefficiency Sunday

Cook rushed nine times for 20 yards and two touchdowns while recording five receptions on six targets for seven yards in Sunday's 30-21 win over the Chiefs.

Analysis: Cook struggled on the ground against the interior of the Chiefs' defense, as many talented backs have against the third-ranked rushing defense this season. However, the 25-year-old made an impact in the box score by finishing off a pair of lengthy offensive drives in the first half with short trips to the end zone. It was the Georgia product's worst yardage output of the season but not his worst fantasy showing. Cook has generated 751 yards from scrimmage with 11 combined touchdowns in 10…read more

Strong rushing day in win

Cook rushed 19 times for 80 yards and a touchdown and brought in one of three targets for five yards in the Bills' 30-20 win over the Colts on Sunday.

Analysis: Cook worked hard for his yards Sunday, considering 20 of them came on one carry. However, that explosive play and his two-yard game-sealing touchdown run with just over three minutes remaining helped round out his fantasy day, and he now has four rushing scores in the last four games. While he surprisingly was quiet in the passing game despite the Bills being down multiple targets Sunday, Cook should remain busy as both a runner and receiver in a Week 11 home showdown against the Chiefs.

Gets 15 touches in Week 9 win

Cook rushed 10 times for 44 yards and caught five of six targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: Cook got 10 of the 17 rushing attempts among Buffalo's running backs, but backups Ray Davis and Ty Johnson were both more efficient in terms of yards per carry, and Davis had a 63-yard receiving touchdown. Cook has been feast or famine on the ground, with four games of at least 71 rushing yards and four games of 32 or fewer heading into Week 10 against the Colts. He has seven rushing touchdowns this season after scoring only four times on the ground across the 2022 and 2023 regular seasons…read more

Monster game Sunday

Cook rushed 17 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns while adding 22 yards on three receptions in Sunday's 31-10 win over the Seahawks.

Analysis: Cook was the star on offense in a one-sided affair Sunday, running roughshod over Seattle's porous rushing defense en route to two scores. The 24-year-old had already scored twice in a game this season, but this was his first 100-plus-yard rushing contest in 2024. Cook has now produced a combined 597 yards from scrimmage with eight total touchdowns through seven games, making him an elite fantasy tailback heading into next Sunday's tilt against Miami.

Limited to 32 yards

Cook rushed the ball 12 times for 32 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-10 win over the Titans. He was not targeted.

Analysis: Cook returned from a one-game absence and retook the lead-back role in Buffalo's backfield, accounting for 12 of 17 carries by running backs. His efficiency was a more significant reason for concern, as his longest gain went for 11 yards while seven of his attempts went for two yards or fewer. Even more of a problem for Cook was his lack of involvement in the passing game, as he went without both a target and a reception in a game for the first time this season.

Ready to return Week 7

Cook (toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's contest against the Titans, while rookie fourth-rounder Ray Davis (calf) is listed as questionable, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Prior to Cook sitting out this past Monday against the Jets, there wouldn't have been much worry about his workload, as he was averaging 16.2 touches for 86.4 yards from scrimmage and 1.0 touchdown per game through five weeks. However, a toe injury for Cook paved the way for Davis to lead the Bills backfield Week 6, and the latter reeled off 152 total yards on 23 touches. Cook's health took a turn for the better this week, when he capped it with back-to-back full practices, while Davis came…read more

Practices fully Thursday

Cook (toe) practiced fully Thursday.

Analysis: After being listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's walkthrough, Cook worked fully a day later, which sets the stage for him to reclaim his lead role in the Bills backfield Sunday against the Titans. In Cook's absence in this past Monday's 23-20 win over the Jets, Ray Davis -- who was limited by a calf injury Thursday -- carried 20 times for 97 yards and caught all three of his targets for 55 yards. If Davis is available this weekend, he'll be in line to move back to a complementary role…read more

Listed as limited in walkthrough

Cook (toe) was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's walk-through practice.

Analysis: Though Wednesday's session wasn't a standard practice, Cook's limited participation suggests that he's trending in the right direction after having missed Monday's 23-20 win over the Jets. Thursday's practice will provide added context regarding his status for this weekend's game against the Titans. If Cook remains out Sunday, Ray Davis would serve as the Bills' lead option on the ground.

Participating in walk-through

Cook (toe) will participate in Wednesday's walk-through session, but head coach Sean McDermott said Thursday's practice will provide a better barometer for the running back's health, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: McDermott previously said Tuesday that he was optimistic about Cook being ready for Sunday's game against the Titans. Cook missed Monday's 23-20 win over the Jets, opening the door for rookie Ray Davis to take 23 touches for 152 yards while handling a 58 percent snap share.

Coach hoping for Week 7 return

Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Tuesday that he's optimistic Cook (toe) will be available to play Sunday against the Titans, Matt Parrino of The Syracuse Post-Standard reports.

Analysis: Though Cook was listed as questionable heading into Monday's game against the Jets, reports leading up to the contest suggested he was on track to play. However, Cook didn't make enough progress in his recovery from a toe injury and ended up on the inactive list for the first time all season, with the Bills turning to rookie Ray Davis and veteran Ty Johnson to fill the backfield in a 23-20 win. Davis (20 carries for 97 yards, three receptions for 55 yards) was impressive in his first extended…read more

Inactive versus Jets

Cook (toe) is inactive for Monday night's game against the Jets.

Analysis: After being deemed a non-participant in Thursday's practice and Friday's walkthrough, Cook logged a limited session Saturday before being listed as questionable for the contest. With Cook having been made inactive by the Bills on Monday, look for Ty Johnson and Ray Davis to lead the team's Week 6 backfield, with practice-squad elevation Frank Gore also on hand to provide depth.

Officially questionable for Monday

Cook was a limited participant in practice Saturday and is questionable for Monday night's game against the Jets with a toe injury, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: A report earlier Saturday indicated that Cook would be limited in practice, but he is trending toward suiting up Monday. With the first part of that scenario having officially occurred, there is reason to believe Cook is in line to play against the Jets. The running back didn't practice at all Thursday and Friday, so his upgrade to a limited session Saturday is a welcome sign for fantasy managers who roster him. Still, it makes sense to keep a close eye on any updates to Cook's status, as the…read more

Trending toward playing Monday

Cook (toe) is expected to practice in limited fashion Saturday and is trending toward playing Monday against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Schefter seems plugged into this situation given the Bills technically haven't practiced yet Saturday. Cook was a DNP for both Thursday and Friday practices, so any upgrade seems to be a solid affirmation of the aforementioned report. Expect more confirmation to arrive in the coming days, but should Cook play, both Ty Johnson and Ray Davis would likely continue to operate as a backup platoon out of the backfield.

Expected to be questionable for MNF

Head coach Sean McDermott expects Cook (toe) to be listed as questionable for Monday's contest against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: This news tidbit comes before the Bills will practice Saturday, so it's fair to say there's likely more context to come after this initial announcement. Expect further information later in the day.

Estimated as non-practice participant

Cook (toe) was deemed a non-participant in Friday's walkthrough.

Analysis: With back-to-back listed DNPs on Thursday and Friday, what (if anything) Cook is able to do Saturday could loom large in terms of his availability for Monday night's game against the Jets. Unless he practices fully, however, the running back presumably will carry a Week 6 injury designation. If Cook ends up unavailable against New York, Ty Johnson and Ray Davis would be next up for the Bills' backfield touches.

Listed as non-participant

Cook (toe) didn't practice Thursday.

Analysis: Cook did some work on a side field but was then held out of practice for a second straight day, leaving his availability for Monday's game against the Jets in doubt. He'll have two more chances to practice before the game, with Ty Johnson and Ray Davis positioned for more snaps and touches if Cook doesn't end up playing. Davis played only three snaps in Sunday's 23-20 loss to Houston, but he might be the lead runner if Cook is inactive, as Johnson mostly has been used on passing downs…read more

Only doing work on side Thursday

Cook (foot/toe) is working on the side field at practice Thursday, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: Cook appears destined to considered 'DNP' for a second straight day after having picked up foot and toe injuries during Buffalo's narrow Week 5 loss to Houston. The starting running back is reportedly considered 'day-to-day' entering a Monday Night Football matchup against the Jets, but he'll only have two more chances to officially participate in practice before receiving an injury designation for the Week 6 matchup. Ty Johnson and Ray Davis are next up for backfield touches for the Bills if…read more

Missing practice Wednesday

Cook won't practice Wednesday due to foot and toe injuries, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: According to Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com, Cook is banged up coming out of last week's loss to Houston and now falls into the day-to-day category ahead of Monday's game against the Jets. Look for added context regarding Cook's status to arrive no later than Thursday, when the Bills will post their first official Week 6 injury report. While Cook is sidelined for at least Wednesday's session, Ty Johnson and Ray Davis are next up for reps out of the backfield.

Season-high 82 rushing yards

Cook rushed 20 times for 82 yards and a touchdown while catching two of three targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 23-20 loss to Houston.

Analysis: Cook cut Buffalo's deficit to 20-10 with a five-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter and set season highs in both carries and rushing yards. His four rushing scores through five games in 2024 match Cook's career total through 33 regular-season games heading into this campaign. Cook will try to continue his scoring spree in Week 6 against the Jets on Monday Night Football.

Modest numbers in Week 4 loss

Cook rushed nine times for 39 yards and caught his only target for nine yards in Sunday's 35-10 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: Cook scored four touchdowns over the previous two games but watched Ty Johnson score a three-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter. Buffalo's entire offense crashed down to earth with just 10 points after averaging 37.3 in Weeks 1-3, and Cook was held to exactly 39 rushing yards for the second consecutive game. While Cook remains the top option in Buffalo's backfield heading into a Week 5 trip to Houston, Josh Allen is a perpetual threat to call his own number in short-yardage situations,…read more

Finds pay dirt in lopsided win

Cook rushed 11 times for 39 yards and a touchdown while catching four of five targets for 48 yards in Monday's 47-10 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Cook finished Buffalo's opening drive with a six-yard touchdown run, which was his third rushing touchdown in the last two games after Cook had only four rushing scores in his first 34 regular-season appearances. He should have added a 28-yard receiving touchdown on a wheel route in the second quarter, but an accurate throw from Josh Allen went right through Cook's hands. Despite that miscue, Cook finished second on the team in both rushing yards (behind Allen's 44) and receiving yards (behind…read more

Three TDs in Week 2 road win

Cook rushed 11 times for 78 yards and two touchdowns and secured his only target for a 17-yard score in the Bills' 31-10 win over the Dolphins on Thursday night.

Analysis: As the three-touchdown total and the 7.1 yards per carry figure substantiates, Cook was a one-man wrecking crew on the offensive side of the ball for the Bills in the lopsided victory. The third-year back opened the scoring with a 17-yard touchdown reception to cap off Buffalo's opening possession, and he added scoring runs of one and 49 yards in the second quarter. The fact the Bills already had a two-touchdown lead by halftime allowed head coach Sean McDermott to take it easy on Cook in the…read more

Posts 103 total yards in opener

Cook rushed 19 times for 71 yards and caught all three of his targets for 32 yards in Sunday's 34-28 win over the Cardinals.

Analysis: The Bills went with a run-heavy approach, but Josh Allen scored both of the team's rushing touchdowns while also throwing a pair. The 237-pound quarterback vulturing touchdowns is nothing new for Cook, as Cook had just two rushing touchdowns to Allen's 15 in the 2023 regular season. Heading into Thursday's road game against the Dolphins, Cook is the clear lead back in Buffalo over rookie fourth-round draft pick Ray Davis and Ty Johnson (knee), who combined for just five carries and two targets…read more

Won't play in preseason finale

Coach Sean McDermott relayed Monday that the Bills won't play their starters, a group that includes Cook, in the team's preseason finale against the Panthers on Saturday, Alec White of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: The report notes that initially Buffalo's starters were trending toward seeing some snaps this weekend, but with injuries hitting the team ahead of Week 1, a cautious approach will be taken. As a result, Cook's next game action will occur Sunday, Sept. 8 against the Cardinals, and at that time the 2022 second-rounder will be in line to continue to lead a backfield that also includes Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.

Dominates first-team touches

Cook rushed the ball six times for 25 yards in Saturday's 9-3 preseason win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Cook was unsurprisingly the first Buffalo running back on the field, but he was the only player to record a rushing attempt with the first-team offense on the field. That usage wasn't quite as significant because the Bills failed to approach the goal line -- the most likely spot for Cook to lose work during the regular season -- but it's at least some indication of the gap that he has built as the Bills' lead back over Ty Johnson and Ray Davis.

Bottled up in preseason start

Cook rushed four times for two yards and wasn't targeted in Saturday's 33-6 preseason loss to the Bears.

Analysis: Cook played the entire first quarter alongside Josh Allen before both checked out of the game to begin the second quarter, replaced by Ray Davis and Mitch Trubisky, respectively. While Cook failed to find running room in this one, his breakout 1,122-rushing yard 2023 regular season has earned the 24-year-old running back some breathing room atop the depth chart. The Bills will travel to Pittsburgh for their next preseason game next Saturday.

Likely playing Saturday

Cook and other starters likely will play about a quarter in Saturday's preseason game against Chicago, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Coach Sean McDermott didn't mention Cook by name, but the running back will likely be out there if Josh Allen is. McDermott confirmed that Allen is scheduled to start, leading an offense in which the top skill-position weapons figure to be Cook, TE Dalton Kincaid and WRs Curtis Samuel, Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman. A relative lack of experience in the pass-catching corps could lead to the running backs being more emphasized, but there's some chance that benefits rookie Ray Davis and/or Ty…read more

Back at practice

Cook (personal) is returning to practice Monday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook missed one practice to attend to a personal matter. He's locked in as the lead back in Buffalo, leaving Ty Johnson, Ray Davis, Darrynton Evans and Frank Gore to compete for backup roles.

Not practicing Sunday

Cook is absent from Bills practice Sunday for personal reasons, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The nature of the personal matter Cook is dealing with hasn't been clarified, nor is it known how long the issue will keep the running back out of practice. At this point, there's no reason to believe he is in danger of missing substantial time. After compiling 1,567 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns last season, Cook is primed to lead the Buffalo backfield again in 2024.

Backfield depth added by Buffalo

Cook is slated to be joined by rookie fourth-rounder Ray Davis in the Bills backfield this coming season, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Cook is coming off a 2023 regular season in which he carried 237times for 1,122 yards and two TDs to go along with 44 catches for 445 yards and four more scores in 17 games. With veteran backs Latavius Murray and Damien Harris no longer in the mix, Davis should have an opportunity to step into a complementary role behind Cook, while potentially claiming a share of the team's short-yardage work. Also in the team's backfield mix are Ty Johnson, Darrynton Evans and reported UDFA signing Frank Gore…read more

Finishes loss with 82 yards

Cook rushed 18 times for 61 yards and caught four of five targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 27-24 loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: Cook had trouble finding holes (3.4 YPC) against a tough defensive front led by the Chiefs' Chris Jones, finishing with 82 total yards and no touchdowns Sunday. With the loss ending Buffalo's season, Cook will finish his breakout fantasy campaign after posting 1,567 yards from scrimmage and six total touchdowns in 17 regular-season games as the Bills' starting tailback. Barring a big-name addition to the backfield this upcoming offseason, Cook figures to lead Buffalo's rushing attack alongside…read more

Leading rusher off 18 carries

Cook carried the ball 18 times for 79 yards while adding four catches for five yards in Monday's 31-17 wild-card win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Cook was unable to score a touchdown to round out his final box score, but he still generated good rushing numbers on a game-high number of carries en route to victory. The 18 totes and 22 combined touches were marks the 24-year-old had reached only twice over the course of the regular season. Quarterback Josh Allen chipped in 8-72-1 as a runner Monday, while true backup Ty Johnson did little with his eight rushes (26 yards). With the victory, the No. 2 seed Bills will move onto the AFC…read more

Poor production on 17 touches

Cook rushed 13 times for 36 yards while adding three receptions on four targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 21-14 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: Cook finished with the most touches for Buffalo but wound up finishing behind five teammates in terms of yardage. To make matters worse, the 23-year-old failed to secure what would have been a certain 23-yard touchdown that hit him square in the hands. Despite this stinker of a regular-season finale, Cook's fantasy managers still enjoyed a breakout campaign in which the 2022 second-round pick accrued 1,567 yards from scrimmage with six total touchdowns in 17 appearances while sticking as the…read more

Held in check by New England

Cook carried the ball 16 times for 48 yards and caught one of three targets for minus-4 yards in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Patriots.

Analysis: The second-year running back was held to his lowest scrimmage yardage total since Week 9, a game in which he only got 10 touches. Cook has become a major part of the Buffalo offense since then, collecting 798 combined yards and four touchdowns on 135 touches over the last seven contests, and he figures to be busy again in Week 18 against the Dolphins as the Bills attempt to claim their fourth straight AFC East title.

Held in check by New England

Cook carried the ball 16 times for 48 yards and caught one of three targets for minus-4 yards in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Patriots.

Analysis: The second-year running back was held to his lowest scrimmage yardage total since Week 9, a game in which he got only 10 touches. Cook has become a major part of the Buffalo offense since then, collecting 798 combined yards and four touchdowns on 135 touches over the last seven contests, and he figures to be busy again in Week 18 against the Dolphins as the Bills attempt to claim their fourth straight AFC East title.

Loses out on goal-line work

Cook rushed the ball 20 times for 70 yards in Saturday's 24-22 win over the Chargers. He also lost a fumble and was not targeted.

Analysis: On the surface, Cook's stat line isn't all that concerning as he continued to dominate work out of the Buffalo backfield. However, he saw zero targets for only the second time this season and for the first time since Week 6. Cook also lost out on red-zone work to both Leonard Fournette and Josh Allen on two separate drives, a concerning trend for his potential to score touchdowns in the final two weeks of the regular season, though it's worth noting that Cook hasn't always been used as a clear…read more

Good to go Saturday

Cook (illness) doesn't carry an injury designation for Saturday night's game against the Chargers.

Analysis: After missing Wednesday's session due to an illness, Cook practiced without restrictions Thursday, which sets the stage for the 2022 second-rounder to continue to lead the Bills backfield this weekend against the 5-9 Chargers. In this past Sunday's 31-10 win over the Cowboys, Cook turned in the most productive fantasy effort of his NFL career, carrying 25 times for 179 yards and a touchdown while catching two of his three targets for 42 yards and another score.

Back at practice

Cook (illness) was back on the field for practice Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook sat out Wednesday's session, but the running back's return to the field a day later seemingly has him on a path to being available Saturday against the Chargers. Later Thursday, the Bills will post their final Week 16 injury report, which will reveal whether Cook carries a questionable tag into Saturday's contest or if he avoids a designation entirely.

Expected to practice Thursday

Bills head coach Sean McDermott expects Cook (illness) to practice Thursday and play in Saturday's game against the Chargers, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Cook didn't practice Wednesday, but his anticipated return to the field Thursday has him trending in the right direction for the Week 16 contest. The Bills will release their final injury report of the week later Thursday, when the extent of Cook's practice participation will be known.

Misses practice Wednesday

Cook isn't practicing Wednesday due to an illness, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook was a full participant in Tuesday's walk-through workout, but the running back's absence from Wednesday's session makes his status worth tracking ahead of Saturday's game against the Chargers. The Bills will conduct their final practice of the week Thursday, and if Cook is able to participate in some capacity, it would likely clear up most of the concern about his status for the Week 16 contest. Cook is coming off a career-best performance in the Bills' 31-10 win over the Cowboys this past…read more

Racks up 221 yards, two TDs

Cook rushed 25 times for 179 yards and a touchdown while catching two of three targets for 42 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-10 win over the Cowboys.

Analysis: Cook reached triple digits in scrimmage yards for the fifth consecutive game, and he hit that mark before halftime with 104 rushing yards and 42 receiving yards in the first half. That production included an 18-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. Cook had an opportunity to add another receiving touchdown in the third quarter but dropped a pass just outside the end zone. That was a rare mistake in an otherwise outstanding performance from the second-year running back, who blew past his…read more

Comes up big in Week 14 win

Cook carries the ball 10 times for 58 yards and caught all five of his targets for 83 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 win over Kansas City.

Analysis: The second-year running back wound up as the Bills' leading receiver on the day, and Cook opened the scoring by connecting with Josh Allen on a 25-yard TD strike late in the first quarter. Cook has reached 100 scrimmage yards in four straight games, with Sunday's 141 being his best total since he erupted for 159 yards back in Week 2. He could have a hard time extending his streak to five games in Week 15 against a tough and aggressive Cowboys defense.

Triple-digit scrimmage yards Sunday

Cook carried the ball 16 times for 43 yards and caught six of seven targets for 57 yards in Sunday's 37-34 overtime loss to the Eagles.

Analysis: The catches and receiving yards were career highs for the second-year running back, as Cook reached the century mark in scrimmage yards for the third straight game and the sixth time in 12 contests this season. Buffalo will be on bye next week, but Cook will head into a Week 14 trip to Kansas City having already recorded a 1,000-yard campaign for the first time with 731 rushing yards and 308 receiving yards. A lack of touchdowns -- he has only three, one on the ground and two through the air --…read more

Gets into end zone against Jets

Cook carried the ball 17 times for 73 yards and caught three of four targets for 29 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 32-6 win over the Jets.

Analysis: He was on the end of a five-yard TD from Josh Allen late in the second quarter to give the Bills a 16-0 lead they were never in any danger of relinquishing. With new offensive coordinator Joe Brady in charge, Cook saw at least 20 touches for the first time since Week 2, an encouraging development after the second-year RB had averaged only 12.8 over the prior six games, but he'll face a tough test on the road in Week 12 against an Eagles defense that had allowed the fewest scrimmage yards in the…read more

Eclipses century mark in loss

Cook rushed 12 times for 109 yards and brought in both of his targets for 11 yards in the Bills' 24-22 loss to the Broncos on Monday night. He also committed two fumbles, losing one and recovering the other.

Analysis: Cook was able to get over the 100-yard mark for only the second time this season, with the second-year back accomplishing the feat courtesy of a clutch 42-yard yard run on the Bills' final possession that saw him recover his own fumble during the play and advance the ball another 29 yards. Cook was also part of a bumbled exchange with quarterback Josh Allen, one that won't go on his ledger but was another costly mistake for the Bills. However, Cook's statistical surge was an especially welcome…read more

Disappointing numbers in loss

Cook rushed six times for 20 yards and brought in all four targets for 19 yards in the Bills' 24-18 loss to the Bengals on Sunday night.

Analysis: Cook's role on the ground was especially reduced with the Bills trailing for nearly the entire contest, and he couldn't fully make up for it with his work in the passing game. The talented second-year pro's carry total was his second lowest of the season, but Cook could have a much better opportunity for rushing production against a vulnerable Broncos run defense in a Week 10 home matchup Monday night, Nov. 13.

Takes on main role in Week 8 win

Cook carried 14 times for 67 yards and caught his only target for six yards in Thursday's 24-18 win over Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Cook saw 14 carries to Latavius Murray's five, but quarterback Josh Allen always has the ability to hone in on the run game, as the latter posted a 7-41-1 line on the ground. In fact, Allen has more rushing touchdowns (5) than every other Bills player combined this season. As for Cook, his 4.8 yards per carry is great and he's got a decent role in the passing game with 18 catches on the season, plus he's the main ball carrier, but touchdowns will be tricky to come by even with Damien Harris…read more

Catches TD in Week 7 loss

Cook rushed 13 times for 56 yards while catching all three of his targets for 46 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 29-25 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: Cook caught an eight-yard touchdown in the third quarter, marking his second scrimmage touchdown of the season. He also topped 100 scrimmage yards for the third time this season while continuing to lead a Buffalo backfield that will be without Damien Harris (neck/concussion) for at least three additional games, including Thursday's upcoming home game against the Buccaneers. Latavius Murray turned six touches into 28 scrimmage yards while spelling Cook.

Bounces back with 71 yards

Cook took 14 carries for 71 yards and was not targeted as a receiver in Sunday's 14-9 win over the Giants.

Analysis: Cook bounced back from his negative rushing day against the Jaguars in London last week to lead the Bills in touches and backfield production against the Giants. The 23-year-old produced a stat line Sunday nearly identical to the 14.0 carries and 74.0 yards he averaged over his first four games, confirming his status as Buffalo's lead back survived the overseas dud. Now back on track, Cook will look to continue his breakout campaign against the Patriots next Sunday.

Stuffed by Jags

Cook lost four yards on five carries and caught three of four targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 25-20 loss to the Jaguars.

Analysis: The Bills' entire offense was completely flat for nearly the whole first half, and quarterback Josh Allen took matters into his own hands after halftime, so Cook didn't get much of a chance to improve his numbers. It's the second-year back's worst performance of the season, but he should be able to rebound in Week 6 against a vulnerable Giants run defense.

Scores first TD of season

Cook rushed 12 times for 29 yards and a touchdown and brought in his only target for a 48-yard gain in the Bills' 48-20 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.

Analysis: Cook had his roughest day on the ground on the season from an efficiency perspective, but he partly made up for it by finally finding the end zone in 2023 on a one-yard run late in the first quarter that survived a replay review. His big 48-yard grab also was instrumental in an early third-quarter drive that culminated in a Tyler Bass 33-yard field goal that extended Buffalo's lead to 34-20. Cook continues to contribute explosive plays each week, but he could have another uphill battle for…read more

Effective running but still no TDs

Cook rushed 15 times for 98 yards and caught two of three targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 37-3 win over Washington.

Analysis: Cook easily led the Bills in both carries and rushing yards, but he watched Latavius Murray score on the ground from in close for the second consecutive game. Along with Murray's two touchdowns, Buffalo has a rushing touchdown apiece from Damien Harris and quarterback Josh Allen through three weeks, while Cook has yet to find the end zone in 2023. The elusive second-year running back is averaging 89 rushing yards through three games, and Cook should continue to handle the majority of backfield…read more

Back at practice

Cook (personal) returned to practice Friday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Per Patrick Warren of the Bills' official site, Cook missed practice Thursday as he welcomed the birth of his daughter. With Cook back on the field Friday, the running back is on track to lead Buffalo's backfield Sunday against the Commanders. In the team's 38-10 Week 2 win over the Raiders, the 2022 second-rounder logged 17 carries for 123 yards and caught four passes for 36 yards.

Absent for personal reason

Cook missed Thursday's practice due to a personal matter, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Per Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com, Cook missed the practice in anticipation of the birth of his child. The Bills will release their final Week 3 injury report following practice Friday, when it'll be known whether Cook rejoined the team. In the team's Week 2 win over the Raiders, Cook carried 17 times for 123 yards and caught four passes for 36 yards.

Not spotted at practice

Cook (undisclosed) wasn't spotted during the open portion of Thursday's practice, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Cook wasn't listed on Wednesday's injury report, so it remains to be seen if the running back is dealing with an injury of some sort as Sunday's game against the Commanders approaches. Thursday's looming injury report will add some clarity on that front.

Erupts for 159 total yards

Cook rushed the ball 17 times for 123 yards and no touchdowns in Sunday's 38-10 win over the Raiders. He added four receptions on four targets for 36 yards.

Analysis: Cook tallied the first 100-yard rushing performance of his pro career, which was powered by long gains of 36, 16 and 14 yards. While he held up his end of the deal, Cook's usage was somewhat concerning, as Latavius Murray and Damien Harris combined to tally 13 carries with each also finding the end zone. It's possible that game script had something to do with the rotation at the position, but it will be an ongoing situation worth monitoring. Despite that lingering question, Cook has racked up…read more

Leads backfield with 16 touches

Cook rushed 12 times for 46 yards and caught four of six targets for 17 yards in Monday's 22-16 overtime loss to the Jets.

Analysis: Cook finished with the same number of touches as his older brother Dalvin, who had 59 scrimmage yards for the Jets. While Dalvin faces stiff competition for touches from Breece Hall, James appears to be the clear lead back for the Bills, as veterans Damien Harris and Latavius Murray combined for three carries and four targets. Buffalo ventured inside the Jets' 10-yard line on only one drive, so it remains to be seen how the team delegates goal-line carries, but the majority of those are…read more

Leads backfield with starters

Cook took five carries for 23 yards and two catches for 14 yards in Saturday's preseason game at Chicago.

Analysis: Cook had four carries for 18 yards on the opening drive before Damien Harris closed out the series with a two-yard TD on his first touch. Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs were done after that, but most of Buffalo's probable starters played another drive or two, including Cook. Harris then played deep into the second quarter, while 33-year-old Latavius Murray didn't play at all. Regardless of how things break down behind him, Cook should be Buffalo's lead back -- though perhaps as part of a three-man…read more

Works solely with first team

Cook rushed the ball three times for three yards in Saturday's 27-15 preseason loss to the Steelers.

Analysis: Cook didn't do anything with his two touches, but his usage was more telling. He worked only with the first-team offense, and while Latavius Murray also got some work with Josh Allen, he notably played multiple possessions with backup Matt Barkley. All indications are that the Bills intend to deploy Cook as their top back come the regular season.

Looks good as starter

Cook started the Bills' preseason opener against the Colts on Saturday, rushing for 20 yards and a touchdown on four carries before exiting with the rest of the first team.

Analysis: Cook got to work quickly after the Bills' defense gifted the offense with excellent field position by picking off rookie QB Anthony Richardson in Colts' territory. The 23-year-old handled all three rushing attempts on the ensuing drive, with the third being punched in for an eight-yard score. Cook was not targeted as a passer, but he may be forced to show us that part of his game following the announcement that Bills receiving back Nyheim Hines (knee) will miss the entire 2023 season. The other…read more

Offers three-down potential?

Bills offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey told reporters Thursday that he's "really excited" about Cook and believes he has "three-down back" potential, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Bills gave Cook a minor vote of confidence this offseason when they let Devin Singletary leave for Houston and settled for Damien Harris and Latavius Murray -- signed for less than $2 million apiece -- as veteran backfield additions. Cook, a 2022 second-round pick, did well with his chances last year, averaging 5.7 yards on 89 carries and 8.6 yards on 21 catches, with the stipulation that much of his work came in garbage time. Harris and Murray will compete for work, especially carries…read more

Slated to work alongside Harris

Cook and Nyheim Hines will face competition for reps out of the Buffalo backfield in 2023 after the Bills signed Damien Harris to a one-year contract earlier this week, Maddy Glab of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: The addition of Harris helps fill the void created by the departure of Devin Singletary, who recently signed a deal with the Texans. As a rookie last season, Cook logged 89 carries for 507 yards and two touchdowns to go along with a 21-180-1 receiving line in 16 games. The 5-foot-11, 213-pound Harris brings added power to Buffalo's backfield mix and can be expected to absorb a decent chunk of the 177 carries vacated by Singletary, especially in early down and short-yardage situations. Even so,…read more

Expected to see more work in 2023

Bills GM Brandon Beane said Cook is expected to a bigger part of the offense in 2023, according to Matt Lombardo of Heavy.com.

Analysis: "We're excited about Cook, and looking forward to what he can do in Year 2, especially with an expanded workload and more touches," Beane said Tuesday. With Devin Singletary slated for free agency this offseason, Cook has a chance to carve out the lead-back job in Buffalo after he averaged 5.7 yards per carry on 89 rushes as a rookie. The Bills will very likely add to their backfield this offseason, but Cook's fantasy arrow is pointing upward.

Makes big strides in rookie season

Cook finished the regular season with 507 rushing yards on 89 carries (5.7 YPC) and two rushing touchdowns to go with a 21-180-1 line in the receiving game.

Analysis: The second-round rookie worked his way into almost an even timeshare with starter Devin Singletary by the end of the campaign, and while Cook never really exploded with a giant game, he proved to be useable for those needing to count on modest production from a deeper RB spot. Singletary is an unrestricted free agent, plus the Bills do not expect to have much cap room this offseason, so if Cook's teammate leaves for greener pastures, it could really open things up for him in his second…read more

Scores in Sunday's win

Cook rushed 12 times for 39 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-31 win over the Dolphins in the wild-card round.

Analysis: Cook took a handoff 12 yards to help double Buffalo's lead during the first quarter. Although he also had a 13-yard rush, Cook found little room to maneuver on his other carries. Meanwhile, teammate Devin Singletary rushed 10 times for 48 yards. As the Bills now advance to the AFC divisional round, expect Cook and Singletary to continuing sharing snaps alongside quarterback Josh Allen.

Outplays Singletary in Week 18 win

Cook rushed nine times for 45 yards and caught both of his targets for six yards in Sunday's 35-23 win over the Patriots.

Analysis: Cook was more effective than Devin Singletary, who mustered only 32 yards on eight touches and lost a fumble. After being used sparingly to start the season, the rookie second-round pick out of Georgia started to take on a larger share of Buffalo's backfield touches down the stretch, with 338 of Cook's 507 rushing yards coming in his last seven games. Cook and Singletary will likely continue to split carries in the wild-card round against the Dolphins.

Career-best effort Christmas Eve

Cook rushed 11 times for 99 yards and a touchdown and caught one of two targets for nine yards in Buffalo's win over Chicago on Saturday.

Analysis: The 99 rushing yards and the 108 scrimmage yards are career highs for the rookie, who continues to provide the Bills with a Robin to Devin Singletary's Batman. Cook has gone over 100 yards from scrimmage or scored a TD in three of the past four games, giving him solid value as a No. 2 running back. He'll continue to see regular touches, as newcomer Nyheim Hines barely gets looks in the regular game plan.

Finds end zone in key win

Cook carried five times for 34 yards and caught two of three targets for five yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 32-29 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: The TD catch was the first of Cook's NFL career, as he continues to have a sizable role behind starting RB Devin Singletary in a high-powered offense. While Cook has seen only nine carries over the past two games, he has now put up at least eight fantasy points in three of the past five contests, not bad production for a backup running back. His production could spike if the Bills -- currently the top seed in the AFC -- get to rest some starters for the final game of the season, and…read more

Finds end zone in key win

Cook carried five times for 34 yards and caught two of three targets for five yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 32-29 win over the Dolphins.

Analysis: The TD catch was the first of Cook's NFL career, as he continues to have a decent-sized role behind starter Devin Singletary in a high-powered offense. While Cook has seen only nine carries over the past two games, he has now put up at least eight fantasy points in three of the past five contests, not bad production for a backup running back. The real fantasy jackpot could come if the Bills -- currently the top seed in the AFC -- are able to rest some starters for the final game of the season,…read more

Struggles to find open running room

Cook carried four times for six yards and added a nine-yard reception in Sunday's 20-12 win over the Jets.

Analysis: Though he and starter Devin Singletary worked in a relatively even timeshare for the second week in a row, Cook wasn't able to build on his breakthrough Week 13 outing against the Patriots, during which the rookie totaled 105 yards from scrimmage on 20 touches. Singletary was the more productive of the two backs versus the Jets (eight carries for 39 yards, one catch for four yards), but not so much so that it will guarantee him the majority of the snaps moving forward. Even if Cook sees his 41…read more

Career-best game Thursday

Cook rushed 14 times for 64 yards and secured all six targets for 41 yards in the Bills' 24-10 win over the Patriots on Thursday night.

Analysis: Cook ended up as the surprise leader in rush attempts and rushing yardage on the night for the Bills while also checking in second in receptions. The rookie outpaced Devin Singletary by one carry and 13 rushing yards, and Cook also drew four more targets than his backfield mate, who didn't bring in either of his two looks. Whether Thursday night's usage is a harbinger of things to come down the stretch remains to be seen, but it's worth noting Cook does now have double-digit rush attempts in…read more

Two carries, two catches Week 12

Cook rushed twice for four yards and caught two of five targets for 14 yards in Thursday's 28-25 win over Detroit.

Analysis: Devin Singletary dominated the touches in Buffalo's backfield with 80 scrimmage yards on 14 carries and one catch, but Cook at least maintained the No. 2 role over Nyheim Hines, who touched the ball only once on offense. Barring an injury to Singletary, Cook will have a hard time carving out a meaningful role as a distant third rushing option in a Buffalo offense that relies primarily on Josh Allen's arms and legs.

Making his mark

Cook rushed 11 times for 86 yards in Buffalo's win over over the Browns on Sunday. He was targeted twice but did not catch a pass.

Analysis: This was not a case of garbage-time yards for the rookie backup to Devin Singletary, as the contest was closely contested for much of the afternoon, and Cook was used as an effective change-up to Singletary. The former showed his speed on a few of the runs and co-led the Bills in rushing yardage. While Singletary is the clear-cut No. 1 and seems to be picking up steam himself, Cook clearly is ahead of trade deadline acquisition Nyheim Hines, who's been used primarily in the return game and saw…read more

Keeps No. 2 role in Week 9

Cook took four carries for 15 yards and gathered in two of four targets for 18 yards during Sunday's 20-17 loss at the Jets.

Analysis: Despite the addition of Nyheim Hines from the Colts prior to last week's trade deadline, Cook remained the No. 2 running back in terms of usage Week 9, at least for one game. Devin Singletary paced the Bills backfield with 12 touches on a 74 percent snap share, Cook had six touches while playing 23 percent of the plays, and Hines didn't have a rush and couldn't haul in his only target on four offensive snaps. The script may flip as Hines grows more accustomed to the playbook, but for the time…read more

Likely to sit third on depth chart

Cook is expected to head into the Bills' Week 9 game against the Jets as the team's third running back after Buffalo acquired Nyheim Hines from Indianapolis on Tuesday, Michael Giardi of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Fresh off carrying five times for 35 yards while adding a 41-yard reception in Sunday's win over the Packers, Cook might have seemed poised to handle a larger role in the second half of the season behind top back Devin Singletary. Instead, the Bills' decision to trade for Hines looks like it'll render Cook as little more than an insurance option, given that Hines has been one of the NFL's top pass-catching backs since entering the NFL in 2018. Singletary is averaging a healthy 4.5 yards per…read more

Combines for 76 yards in win

Cook rushed five times for 35 yards and caught his lone target for 41 yards in Sunday's 27-17 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Cook stuck as the clear No. 2 back behind Devin Singletary for the second week in a row. The rookie second-round pick showed burst when he was on the field, ripping off 41 yards on an impressive catch in addition to his work as a rusher. Devin Singletary dominated the backfield touches with 15 to Cook's six, so it appears that the Bills feel more comfortable with the consistent veteran option while the team continues to rack up wins. That said, Cook is looking like a player worth stashing in…read more

Little usage as clear No. 2

Cook saw just two carries for eight yards and didn't get a target during Sunday's win over Kansas City.

Analysis: Cook managers may have gotten their hopes up when Zack Moss was made a healthy inactive for the game, but it was too close of a contest for the team to put much on the rookie's shoulders, especially with Devin Singletary and Josh Allen capable of handling most of the rushing load. It at least looks like Cook has moved past Moss on the depth chart, and the Bills do have an easier schedule following the team's Week 7 bye, so there could be upcoming opportunities to give Cook some extra playing…read more

Scores first NFL touchdown

Cool rushed four times for 31 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win over the Steelers. He was not targeted in the passing game.

Analysis: Cook saw extra time with the game being a laugher, as all four of the Bills' top rushers averaged at least seven yards per carry. And that's outside of Josh Allen's 424 passing yards. Both Cook and Zack Moss are well behind Devin Singletary in the pecking order, though Cook -- a second-round rookie -- showed some real burst on his TD run Sunday, so it'll be interesting to see how the carries shake out in the coming weeks when Singletary needs a breather.

Plays two offensive snaps

Cook did not record a single rushing attempt and failed to reel in his lone target in Sunday's 23-20 win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Cook was a complete non-factor in the contest, playing just two offensive snaps. Starter Devin Singletary is handling the majority of the team's snaps out of the backfield, leaving few opportunities for both Cook and fellow backup Zack Moss. The rookie Cook will look to improve upon his down week as Buffalo's No. 3 running back when the Bills host the Steelers in Week 5.

Gets 11 carries in mop-up duty

Cook rushed 11 times for 53 yards and failed to catch his only target in Monday's 41-7 win over the Titans.

Analysis: Cook got an extensive audition after the game got out of hand, and the rookie second-round pick looked explosive, with most of his yardage coming on a 33-yard burst to open Buffalo's final drive. For now, Cook's usage in competitive games will be limited to splitting change-of-pace duties behind Devin Singletary with Zack Moss, though this likely won't be the last blowout the Bills orchestrate in 2022.

Debut to forget

Cook fumbled on his very first NFL rushing attempt in Thursday's win over the Rams and did not receive another carry or target in the passing game.

Analysis: If Cook was coached by the great Bill Belichick, he might not see the field again until Week 16. While we can kid on that point, the Bills didn't bench him completely following the miscue. Still, Cook saw only five percent of the offensive snaps compared to Devin Singletary's 59 percent and Zack Moss's 37 percent. While Cook is a second-round pick and has plenty of upside, it's hard to see him leap-frogging Singletary even if he does hold onto the ball better. Cook will see his looks, but it's…read more

Starts preseason finale

Cook carried the ball three times for 13 yards in Friday's preseason loss to the Bills. He also had one reception that went for no gain.

Analysis: Cook started the game, though Devin Singletary didn't tally any statistics in the team's preseason finale. Cook was stymied on the team's first drive, gaining no yards on a carry and reception. He also was called for chop block penalty, though the foul was declined. Cook rebounded for gains of nine and four yards on the ground during the team's second drive, his only action of the contest. He figures to work behind Singletary to begin the season, though Cook's role could expand if he impresses…read more

Strong preseason showing

Cook ran for 38 yards on four carries and caught a 12-yard reception on one target in Buffalo's preseason game against Denver on Saturday.

Analysis: The explosive running Cook demonstrated at Georgia has so far carried over to the NFL, and he appears ready for whatever role the Bills might have for him -- seemingly a pass-heavy role off the bench behind starter Devin Singletary. Singletary (four carries for 39 yards) and Zack Moss (four carries for 19 yards and two touchdowns) did some flexing of their own against Denver, which is a useful reminder that this backfield might rotate often.

Minimal impact in preseason debut

Cook carried the ball three times for five yards in Saturday's 27-24 preseason win over the Colts. He added one reception on one target for five yards.

Analysis: Cook mixed in with Zack Moss on the Bills' first offensive possession of the game and was on the field for a few offensive possessions thereafter. He couldn't get going in any facet of the game and was outplayed by Moss, who managed 37 yards on three attempts. Devin Singletary didn't suit up Saturday but is expected to serve as the lead back in Buffalo to begin the season, while Moss and Cook figure to battle for a complementary role out of the backfield.