Overview

• Cook’s new extension spans four years for $48 million and includes $30 million in guaranteed money, agent Zac Hiller confirmed.
• The running back resumed practice on August 12, ending a weeklong hold-in during which he attended camp but refused to participate in drills or play in the preseason opener.
• Under the new contract, Cook ranks among the NFL’s top-paid running backs with roughly $12 million in average annual value.
• Buffalo’s salary cap flexibility had been strained by offseason extensions for Josh Allen, Khalil Shakir, Terrel Bernard and others, leading the team to consider tag and roster alternatives before reaching a deal.
• The agreement eliminates a potential distraction for the Bills as they prepare for the regular season and stabilizes their backfield behind a two-time Pro Bowler with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.