Bills' Cook doesn't want to be 'a cancer' amid extension pursuit

Running back James Cook doesn't want to be a distraction for the Buffalo Bills amid his pursuit of a contract extension.

"I don't want to feel like a cancer because I don't like all that attention," Cook told the "Nightcap" podcast.

But he also wants to make sure he's given his due as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.

"We work all our life to get paid. Pay me the big bucks," Cook said.

Cook, 25, caused a stir last week when he pinned his own comment on Instagram Live saying "15 mill year," suggesting he wants to be paid around $15 million per season. Only Christian McCaffrey ($19M) makes more than $15 million per year among running backs.

However, Cook insisted his aim isn't to surpass the recent deals for tailbacks such as Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Jonathan Taylor. The Pro Bowler said he only wants to be compensated for what he brings to the field, arguing that teams tend to rely on rushers toward the latter part of the season heading into the playoffs.

"I just want to get what I deserve," Cook said.

Cook displayed his versatility in his third season with the Bills in 2024. He posted his second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season to go along with 16 touchdowns and 4.9 yards per carry. Cook also caught 32 passes for 258 yards and another two scores.

Khalil Shakir, Terrel Bernard, and Greg Rousseau are among Buffalo's other starters that could seek an extension this offseason. The Bills are currently $10.1 million over the projected salary cap of $279.5 million, per Over the Cap.