Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is setting his sights on repeating as the NFL's leading rusher, a difficult but not insurmountable goal he approaches with a forward-looking mindset.
"I don’t like to talk about last year, because last year is in the past. This year is a new year," Cook said. "Put last year behind me, and just come out here to do it again."
Only Derrick Henry (2019-20) and LaDainian Tomlinson (2006-07) have won consecutive NFL rushing titles since 2001. Cook, entering his fifth season, feels confident in his ability to join that exclusive group, citing a stable offensive line and the offensive scheme implemented by newly promoted head coach Joe Brady.
Brady expressed his expectation for Cook to further develop his game and continue as the team's primary ball carrier. "I expect James Cook to take another step this year in different elements of his game and continue to be the workhorse as a runner," Brady stated. "He had such an incredible season last year. And without diving into exactly what, this is what I told him: He has got to get better. We can’t take steps backwards."
On-Field Performance
Cook's performance in training camp has shown his readiness, with demonstrations of both power and elusiveness. During drills, he has shown the ability to break tackles and gain yards after initial contact. "It’s a new year, and he going to do the same thing that he did last year, having that intensity," safety Cole Bishop commented.
Last season, Cook led the league with nine games of 100 rushing yards or more. He accumulated 1,621 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging a career-best 5.2 yards per carry, which tied for second in the NFL. His 309 carries represented a career high.
Addressing Ball Security
A point of emphasis for Cook has been ball security. He fumbled the ball seven times last season, losing four, including one in a crucial playoff loss. Brady has made it a priority to address this issue. "I fumbled. So I just got to fix it," Cook acknowledged. "The ball is everybody’s job, and that’s my job. I’m willing to protect it."
Contract and Team Aspirations
Cook's approach to his previous contract dispute, which saw him hold out briefly before signing a four-year, $48 million deal, earned him respect from teammates. "I learned that he is very explosive, and he's the man, and he takes care of business on the field and off the field," running back Ray Davis said. "He's going to continue to excel in that way and prove that he earned every dollar."
Beyond individual accolades, Cook expressed a desire for greater team success. "I'm looking forward to doing even bigger things. So whatever that is, I'm willing to do it," he said. The Bills have reached the playoffs for six consecutive seasons but have not advanced to the Super Bowl. "It’s on us. The ball is in our hands," Cook added. "We control our destiny. So whatever we do is on us. Eventually, it’s going to happen."