James Cook has chance to join elite Bills company

It was announced Wednesday morning that James Cook signed a contract extension with the Buffalo Bills, locking him up through the 2029 season.

Having Cook on the Bills offense not only solidifies their offensive potency for the next five seasons, but it also means the three-year veteran running back has a chance to climb to an elite level on the Bills’ all-time rushing list.

Up to this point, Cook has collected 2,638 rushing yards, which places him 16th all-time for the Bills. 

If Cook averages 1,100 rushing yards— a feat that he has accomplished in his last two seasons as a starter— over the next five seasons he would have 8,138 rushing yards, which would surpass Fred Jackson (5,646 yards) and trail only Hall of Fame running backs Thurman Thomas (11,938 yards) and OJ Simpson (10,183 yards).

The Bills’ all-time touchdown mark might be obtainable for Cook, as well. Currently, he has 27 all-purpose touchdowns (20 rushing, 7 receiving). If he averages 12 touchdowns per season over the next five, he would tie Andre Reed and Thurman Thomas for the team’s all-time record.

Considering Cook had 18 touchdowns last season in only 16 games and played less than 50% of the offensive plays, 12 touchdowns per season is very doable.