Buffalo, NY – April 13, 2025
James Cook unleashed a firestorm against Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane, accusing him of dragging out contract talks and blocking trade offers. The star running back, frustrated after months of stalled negotiations for a $15 million annual deal, aired his grievances in a heated podcast interview Sunday, slamming Beane’s tactics as the NFL Draft nears.
Cook’s outburst came as his Orchard Park home hit the market, signaling his desire to bolt. With his $5.7 million rookie deal expiring after 2025, he rejected Beane’s reported two-year, $20 million offer, pushing for a blockbuster trade to teams like the Dolphins or Chiefs. His comments lit a match under Bills Mafia.
“Beane’s putting pressure on me, making me and teams that want me feel drained and look elsewhere,” Cook fumed. “He’s ridiculous—not raising my pay, not trading me, just stalling. I’m done with it.”
Last season, Cook dazzled with 1,009 rushing yards and an NFL-best 16 touchdowns on 237 carries, plus 32 catches for 258 yards and 2 scores. His 4.5 yards per carry broke LeSean McCoy’s 2023 record, cementing his star power at 25.
His 2023 breakout—1,122 yards—proved he’s a game-changer, but a 51% snap share sparked clashes with coaches. Cook’s demand for more carries and a bigger role fueled tension, worsened by Beane’s silence on his future.
Fans feel the heat—Cook’s tirade divides loyalty. His 1,267 total yards powered Buffalo’s 9th-ranked run game, but Beane’s $5.2 million cap limits options. Trading him could fetch a second-round pick, eyeing Missouri’s Luther Burden III.
Beane’s delay—neither paying nor trading—risks alienating Cook. Teams circle, drawn to his 4.42-second 40-dash speed, but his public jab could scare off suitors wary of drama. The clock ticks as draft day looms.
Two Chiefs showdowns await—Cook’s fate could shape Buffalo’s Super Bowl shot. Beane must choose: pay the star, trade him, or face a fractured locker room. Cook’s blast marks a turning point for the Bills.
