As James Cook's contract holdout continues in June 2025, the Buffalo Bills face mounting trade pressure from the Chicago Bears. Will they pay their star RB?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
A storm is brewing in Buffalo, and it's centered on the electric running back James Cook. An icy contract standoff has the star player training away from the team, fueling a whirlwind of trade speculation that has the Chicago Bears circling. As Friday the 13th unfolds, Bills Mafia is left holding its breath, wondering about the future of its offensive backfield.
With James Cook holding out for a new deal and the Chicago Bears reportedly interested, the Bills face a critical decision on their star running back's future.
The situation with James Cook is becoming the biggest storyline of the Bills' offseason. As he seeks a significant contract extension, his decision to train away from the team facility has put GM Brandon Beane in a tough spot. The rumors connecting him to the Chicago Bears aren't just smoke; they represent a real possibility if the two sides can't find common ground. For fans, it's a nervous waiting game. Cook is a dynamic, vital piece of the offense, but the running back market is notoriously tricky. The question isn't just about money; it's about the long-term vision for this team's offensive identity.
While uncertainty clouds the running back room, the Bills solidified a crucial part of their defense by officially signing first-round draft pick Maxwell Hairston. The cornerback from Kentucky, taken 30th overall, inked his rookie deal, bringing a much-needed injection of youth, speed, and playmaking to the secondary. With Hairston locked in, the Bills now have a potential day-one starter to line up opposite Christian Benford, a critical move as they look to rebuild their defensive backfield.
Hairston's signing wasn't without a minor hiccup. He missed the final minicamp practice after tweaking his left hamstring, but GM Brandon Beane quickly eased concerns, calling the injury minor and stating he expects the corner to be fully ready for training camp. Known for his game-breaking talent—he tied a school record with three pick-sixes at Kentucky—a healthy Hairston is exactly what this defense needs. The Bills also signed fourth-round defensive tackle Deone Walker, bringing their total to eight of nine draft picks under contract. Now, only second-round defensive tackle T.J. Sanders remains unsigned as the team heads into the summer break.
As the dust settles on another week in Orchard Park, two major questions will dominate the conversation heading into training camp. First, can the Bills and James Cook resolve their differences, or will the star running back be wearing a different uniform this fall? And second, how quickly can Maxwell Hairston and the new rookie class make an impact? The answers will shape the entire 2025 season.
