Buffalo Bills' running back James Cook tallied 1,267 yards from scrimmage and a conference-leading 18 touchdowns as an integral piece of the team's explosive offense this past season — a campaign that sent him to the Pro Bowl for the second time in his three-year career.
So, it was no surprise to hear talk of a contract extension for Cook surface shortly after the season ended. What was a surprise, however, was how Cook publicly inserted himself into the discussion, specifically on Instagram, suggesting a salary of "$15 mill year".
Cook followed by 'scrubbing' his Instagram account of most things Bills and 'unfollowing' the team's official account — actions that were perceived by many as a bit immature.
On Thursday evening, however, Cook walked back some of his "demands." Appearing on NightCap with Shannon Sharpe and Ochocinco and, while he didn't back away from his proposed salary number, he did make it clear he wasn't interested in being a distraction to his team, telling Sharpe, "I don't want to feel like a cancer, at all. I don't like all that attention — that's not me, honestly. I'm just standing on business...what I deserve. I just want what I deserve. What I asked for."
Despite his public negotiations, Cook's heart seems to be in right place regarding his lockerroom leadership. No doubt Bills fans are hoping both their front office and Cook can agree on what he deserves.
