James Cook has rapidly developed into one of the NFL’s most dangerous running backs. While he was thought to be more of a sub-package receiver-slash-runner when the Buffalo Bills drafted him out of Georgia in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Cook has become much more than that in his three-plus years with the team.
Cook has eclipsed the 1,000-yard rushing mark in each of the last two seasons. He has also become a much more consistent rusher between the tackles, which has allowed the Bills to
utilize him in more goal-to-go situations than they did previously.
Last season, he tied a team record by rushing for 16 touchdowns in a season. He is currently tied with three other players for another franchise record, having scored a rushing touchdown in seven consecutive regular-season games dating back to last season.
Cook’s hot start this year extends to more than just rushing. Through three weeks, he is the NFL’s only player to total at least 100 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown in each game.
During Buffalo’s wild comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, Cook totaled a season-low 44 rushing yards on 13 carries. However, he caught a season-high five passes for a season-high 58 yards, giving him 102 yards from scrimmage for the day. He also ran for one score. Against the New York Jets the following week, Cook had 132 yards rushing with two scores, adding one three-yard reception to his ledger. Against the Miami Dolphins last week, Cook once again went over 100 yards rushing, totaling 108 yards and a score while adding three receptions for 10 yards.
Can Cook continue his streak this weekend against the New Orleans Saints? The Saints have been solid against the run, ranking sixth in opponent yards per carry through three games.
Buffalo is certainly going to let James cook, and they’ll likely try to feed him a rushing touchdown if they have the chance so that he can take some possession of the franchise’s consecutive games with a score record. However, if the Bills get out in front early, it could limit Cook’s touches this week.
Either way, Cook has proven to be a wise investment for general manager Brandon Beane and company.
