Buffalo Bills news (June 2025): James Cook's contract talks heat up, Elijah Moore shines in OTAs. Will Cook stay? Get the latest Bills updates!
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Friday brought a whirlwind of news for Bills Mafia, highlighted by the simmering contract situation with star running back James Cook. As Cook enters his make-or-break final rookie contract year, his reported $15 million annual demand is causing ripples, especially with promising rookie Ray Davis waiting in the wings. It's a high-stakes game of chicken that could reshape the Bills' backfield.
He's just fitting right in... making plays all over the field. - Tre'Davious White on Elijah Moore's OTA performance.
The biggest buzz surrounds James Cook. After a stellar 2024 where he was arguably the most consistent offensive weapon outside of Josh Allen, Cook is looking to cash in, reportedly seeking a hefty $15 million per year. The Bills, however, seem hesitant, fueling speculation about his future in Buffalo. Could this be the opening for rookie Ray Davis to carve out a significant role sooner than expected? Cook's 2025 performance will be under an intense microscope. Meanwhile, on the sunnier side of offensive news, newly acquired wide receiver Elijah Moore is already making waves in OTAs. Veteran corner Tre'Davious White couldn't help but sing his praises, highlighting Moore's quick grasp of the offense and his knack for making plays. White noted Moore's impressive integration and playmaking ability, a promising sign for an aerial attack looking for more firepower alongside Stefon Diggs. Moore's chemistry with Allen is something every fan will be tracking closely as we head towards training camp.
Shifting to the defensive side, all eyes are on the health of newly signed veteran Joey Bosa. Recovering from a right knee injury sustained late last season, Bosa is the X-factor for the Bills' 2025 pass rush, though he's expected to be ready for training camp. Defensive Coordinator Bobby Babich is optimistic, believing Bosa can significantly elevate their pressure game. The team is wisely managing his workload, aiming for peak Bosa by Week 1, with medical staff closely monitoring his progress. As the Bills wrapped their second week of OTAs, Babich emphasized how new defensive linemen, including Bosa, will bolster the team's pass rush. Alongside Bosa, hopes are high for A.J. Epenesa, who enters his sixth NFL season poised for a breakout year. After a steady career climb, Epenesa is expected to take on a larger role in the defensive line rotation, with coaches lauding his work ethic and athleticism. His development is seen as crucial for Sean McDermott's defense this season.
Let's not forget the man steering the ship: reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen. With Allen at the helm, the Bills enter 2025 as bona fide AFC favorites. After the heartbreak of falling just short of the Super Bowl in 2024, the hunger is palpable. This roster is considered one of the league's most complete, and Allen's continued elite play remains the cornerstone of their championship dreams. During the OTA wrap-up, Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady and Special Teams Coordinator Chris Tabor also shared insights, focusing on player development and scheme adjustments. The message from the coaching staff is clear: competition and depth are paramount as they prepare for mandatory minicamp.
As OTAs conclude and mandatory minicamp looms, the storylines are compelling. From Cook's contract saga to Moore's impressive integration and the defensive line's potential, the Bills are building towards what they hope will be a championship season. The pieces are being assembled, the MVP is ready, and Bills Mafia is watching with bated breath. The journey to Super Bowl glory continues.
