James Cook remains absent from the Buffalo Bills' voluntary offseason workouts as he seeks a lucrative contract extension. Bills' GM Brandon Beane expresses optimism about reaching a long-term deal, stating, 'He will be here this year and hopefully beyond.' Cook's compelling performance last season, with over 1,000 rushing yards and 18 total touchdowns, positions him as a key figure in the team's running back strategy.

While Beane emphasizes the team's focus on the upcoming season, he acknowledges Cook's importance as the primary back, especially alongside fellow running backs Ray Davis and Ty Johnson, who contributed to the team's success last year. Cook's reported demand of $15 million AAV could complicate negotiations, but Beane insists that the team hopes to keep the talented running back for the long haul.