Buffalo, NY – November 6, 2025
Just days after their emotional 28–21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, the Buffalo Bills have been dealt a concerning setback — star running back James Cook was absent from Wednesday’s practice due to an ankle and leg injury sustained during that very game.
The news hit Bills fans like a cold wind off Lake Erie. Cook, the engine of Buffalo’s ground attack this season, had been nothing short of electric against the Chiefs — carrying the ball 27 times for 114 yards, setting up key touchdowns for Ty Johnson and Josh Allen. Though he didn’t find the end zone himself, his consistency and toughness powered the Bills’ offense when it mattered most.
Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed Wednesday that Cook’s injury “surfaced late” after the Chiefs game and that the 26-year-old has been “feeling sore” since. While no immediate diagnosis was shared, the uncertainty surrounding his status has created tension ahead of Sunday’s crucial AFC East showdown with the Miami Dolphins.
Cook’s absence would be a massive blow. According to Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano, Cook has quietly become “Buffalo’s most indispensable weapon,” offering balance to an offense often carried by Allen’s arm.
“Josh Allen has never had a running back this reliable beside him,” Vacchiano wrote. “Cook’s presence makes this Bills offense feel different — more complete, more dangerous.”
Indeed, Cook’s 2025 campaign has been career-defining. With 867 rushing yards through nine games — including five 100+ yard performances, all in Bills victories — he’s transformed from a promising young talent into a franchise cornerstone.
Part of that surge may stem from newfound security: in August, Cook inked a four-year, $48 million contract extension, ensuring his place in Buffalo’s backfield for years to come. No longer haunted by contract pressures or injury fears, Cook has played with freedom and fire.
But this week, that fire flickered.
If he’s unable to suit up against Miami, the Bills will turn to Ty Johnson and Latavius Murray, though neither possesses Cook’s explosive mix of patience, power, and precision. The Dolphins’ defense, which allows a staggering 145.6 rushing yards per game, could have been ripe for the taking — if Cook were healthy.
For now, all eyes remain on Friday’s practice report. If Cook’s name stays on the “DNP” list, Buffalo’s playoff push could face a dangerous detour.
As one team insider put it:
“When James Cook runs, this team breathes differently. You can feel it in the stadium — every cut, every burst, it lifts the whole city.”
Buffalo’s fate against Miami may depend on whether their quiet star can rise once more.
