Summary

James Cook was drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, Round 2, (pick 63) out of University of Georgia. Cook has evolved into a significant offensive weapon for the Bills. Originally drafted as a change-of-pace back with strong receiving chops, he has grown into a more complete contributor. His 2023 season (1,122 rush yards) marked a breakout as a more central rushing option. My Histro In 2024, he further stepped up, leading the league in rushing touchdowns with 16 and showing impressive efficiency per carry. PFF

Cook’s blend of speed, elusiveness and receiving background gives him a dual-threat profile: he can threaten from the backfield as a runner and align in space or the slot as a receiver. While his size is modest for a feature back, his production and efficiency are strong, making him a key part of Buffalo’s offense.

Strengths

• Explosive athleticism and jump-cut ability: Scouts note his burst through creases and ability to change direction quickly behind the line of scrimmage. NFL Draft Buzz

• Efficient per-carry production: In 2024, Cook averaged 4.9 yards per attempt, placing him among the more efficient runners in the league. PFF

• Receiving skills & versatility: Cook possesses soft hands, route-running ability out of the backfield, and the ability to function on third downs or in passing situations. Sportskeeda

• Scoring ability and big-play threat: His 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024 tied him for the NFL lead among running backs, showing his nose for the end zone. PFF

• Improved role & trust within offense: From early years with limited carries to more central role, Cook has shown growth in workload and responsibility. My Histro

Weaknesses

• Workload / usage limitations: Despite his efficient production, Cook’s snap share and carry totals remain modest compared to bell-cow backs. For example, in 2024 he was 19th among runners in carries (207 attempts) while still ranking first in touchdowns. PFF

• Goal-line and short-yardage usage: Early in his career, and even into 2024, Cook’s goal-line carry share was light, as other players (or the quarterback) handled more of those touches. PFF

• Size / physicality concerns vs. power-run specialists: At ~190 lbs, Cook lacks the bulk of some workhorse backs, which can present challenges when asked to grind between the tackles against heavy defensive fronts. Last Word On Sports

• Blocking & pass protection inconsistencies: As a runner with receiving strengths, some evaluation noted that his blocking and protection duties are less developed, which may affect his “every-down” credibility. Dynasty Nerds

Fit & Outlook

James Cook projects as a high-value feature running back with a combination of rushing and receiving ability that many teams desire. His floor is strong—he already produces efficiently, makes big plays, and has touchdown upside. His ceiling is quite high if his workload expands, his usage in all downs becomes more consistent, and he continues to improve in blocking and short-yardage/power-run situations.

For the Bills, if they increasingly ride him in key situations, give him more carries and trust him in goal-line/short-yardage, Cook could transition into being a full-blown “lead back.” On the other hand, if his usage remains split, especially with other backs or QB runs, he may settle into a slightly more specialized but still impactful role.