The Buffalo Bills have had a noteworthy training camp for less than optimal reasons over the last two weeks. Buffalo has dealt with a ton of injuries thus far to key players. And while none were anything serious at first, two key players are now missing time with more serious injuries.
Cornerback Max Hairston suffered a knee injury that is keeping him sidelined for multiple weeks, and wide receiver Khalil Shakir is week-to-week with a high ankle sprain. Now, for the first time this offseason, James Cook is sitting out a mandatory practice. When asked why he is sitting down, Cook just kept repeating, "business."
This is almost certainly about the contract negotiations that have yet to lead to a long-term deal between the Bills and their star running back. Seeing that so many injuries are happening, perhaps he decided to play it safe. And while this could be classified as defiant frustration, one NFL insider believes the two sides aren't far apart on a deal.
"The sides have been engaged," Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. "From my understanding, they have not been that far apart through the course of the talks."
Back at the NFL owner's meetings, genera manager Brandon Beane said conversations with Cook's representation had been shelved. Should they be back discussing a deal, something must have changed. Perhaps Cook is sitting out of practice in hopes of getting a potential deal over the finish line.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Be sure to bookmark Buffalo Bills on The Sporting News for all the latest news, interviews, breakdowns, and more!
Bills RB James Cook is putting his foot down, sits out practice amidst several injuries
Bills projected to replace All-Pro star in latest 2026 NFL mock draft
Chicago Bears gave Buffalo Bills blueprint for Micah Parsons trade