James Cook shines at Bills training camp on July 26, 2025, making his case for a new contract. See how he and Josh Allen are leading the offense amid injuries.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The third day of Buffalo Bills training camp brought a flurry of significant news, but all eyes are on running back James Cook. As contract negotiations for a top-of-the-market extension continue, Cook is letting his play do the talking, reportedly looking electric and providing a major boost to an offense being fine-tuned by coordinator Joe Brady. With MVP quarterback Josh Allen locked in for the future, the focus now shifts to securing another key weapon as the team navigates early roster shake-ups and a concerning injury report.
The Buffalo Bills will debut an alternate red helmet for their Week 18 matchup against the New York Jets, marking a return to an iconic look for the franchise.
While Josh Allen's future is secure, James Cook is making a compelling case for his own long-term, big-money deal. The running back is reportedly seeking a contract that would place him among the league's highest-paid, and his performance so far in camp is backing up that demand. Insiders note his explosive play has been a highlight, adding a layer of consistency to Joe Brady's offense. As Brady installs new wrinkles for the 2025 season, having a motivated and dynamic Cook is proving to be a cornerstone of the early game plan.
The wide receiver room experienced a jolt on Saturday with the sudden retirement of David White. The 25-year-old, who was attempting a comeback from a torn ACL, was placed on the reserve/retired list after just three practices. In a corresponding move, the Bills re-signed undrafted rookie Kelly Akharaiyi, who was released just four days prior. This shuffle underscores the intense competition for roster spots, where free-agent acquisition Elijah Moore is already being tabbed as a potential breakout candidate.
The training staff is already working overtime. DE AJ Epenesa (ankle) and LB Dorian Williams (calf) both missed practice with minor injuries, with Williams being spotted in a walking boot. They join a growing list of sidelined players, including OT Spencer Brown (back) and C Sedrick Van Pran-Granger (PUP list). The team is also taking a cautious approach with fourth-round pick Deone Walker, limiting his reps as he manages a lower back stress fracture. Protecting the team's depth, especially on the defensive line, is an immediate priority.
Ending the week on a high note, the Bills officially announced the return of the red helmet. The team will wear the fan-favorite alternate helmet for their crucial Week 18 home game against the New York Jets. The news immediately sparked a wave of excitement across social media from fans and players alike, providing a welcome dose of positive energy and nostalgia as the team grinds through the dog days of summer.
While the buzz around the new helmets and James Cook's dominant start provides a jolt of excitement, the early days of camp are a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. Navigating contract negotiations, managing a growing injury list, and solidifying depth at key positions will be paramount. The coming weeks will reveal which players step up and how this team's identity truly begins to form ahead of the preseason.
