Bills Trade Proposal Adds $41 Million Star Running Back to Replace James Cook

Buffalo, NY – May 3, 2025

The Buffalo Bills could reshape their backfield with a bold trade for Seattle Seahawks star Kenneth Walker III, a move to replace James Cook, whose contract dispute threatens his future, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The $41 million-valued running back would elevate Josh Allen’s offense and fortify Buffalo’s Super Bowl chase.

Cook, demanding $15 million annually against Brandon Beane’s $12 million offer, listed his Orchard Park home, signaling a potential exit. Walker, 24, brings proven explosiveness, rushing for 3,147 yards and 25 touchdowns since 2022. His 2024 dip (573 yards, six games missed) and Seattle’s pivot to Zach Charbonnet make him tradeable.

“Walker’s a dynamic force,” ESPN’s Matt Bowen told The Buffalo News. “He’d ignite Allen’s ground game.”

Walker, in the final year of a $8.4 million rookie deal, could be had for a 2026 fourth-round pick, per Spotrac. His 46 receptions and 315 receiving yards in 2024 align with Joe Brady’s RPO scheme, complementing Allen’s 4,306 passing yards. Beane, with $5.3 million in cap space, sees Walker as a long-term RB1.

“It’s a game-changer,” said NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks. “Walker could redefine Allen’s attack.”

The Seahawks, with Charbonnet’s 1,031 yards and a 28th-ranked rushing attack (95.7 yards per game), may prioritize draft capital for their offensive line. Walker’s $2.8 million cap hit fits Buffalo’s budget, especially after cuts like Dane Jackson freed $7.3 million. Ray Davis remains a solid RB2, but Walker offers star potential.

A Walker-Allen duo could mirror Cook’s 1,086-yard, 16-touchdown impact, easing pressure on Buffalo’s 18th-ranked passing attack (7.6 yards per attempt). However, trading for an expiring contract carries risks, and Beane must weigh Cook’s proven chemistry. The Bills’ draft, led by Maxwell Hairston, lacks RB depth, making Walker a tempting target.

As Beane navigates Cook’s uncertain future, trading for Walker signals a commitment to 2025 dominance. Bills Mafia awaits a resolution, hoping Allen’s offense gains a new star.