CBS Sports forecasts James Cook's role with Bills in 2022
James Cook was a big part of the Georgia rushing attack last year, and he’ll try to keep a similar role with the Buffalo Bills this year. CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso seems to think that can happen.
Trapasso discussed how Bills rookies could fare this season, and Cook could be in position to play a big role in the backfield. Buffalo took Cook as the No. 63 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft to add to its running back room. The Bills have Devin Singletary and Zack Moss in tow, but were looking for one more running back in free agency.
Trapasso argued Cook is up to par with some of the free agency options, which makes him a good fit in the scheme.
“Cook is the ‘wide back’ the Bills were looking for in free agency, and he’s faster down the field than J.D. McKissic,” he wrote. “While not the most natural runner between the tackles, Cook plays and thrives on the perimeter, on handoffs and when he’s split out wide or in the slot.
“He runs routes like a receiver, and his 4.42 speed makes him a nightmare to cover for linebackers and most safeties. In Buffalo’s high-powered offense, he’ll be given more touches than many probably expect, as the Bills have wanted to feature more explosiveness out of the backfield for a while.”
James Cook describes his play style and how he became versatile
The Buffalo Bills selected former Georgia running back James Cook in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the hopes they will be able to mold him into the next multi-position offensive threat thanks to his ability to perform well anywhere on the field.
“I mean, there’s so many variations to what I can do, that I think some people in the NFL can’t do,” Cook said.
Cook said his versatility can see him end up in the backfield bouncing outside the tackles and finding lanes when need be, but he’s also comfortable in the slot and out wide.
This was apparent at Georgia last season, taking 113 carries for 728 yards and seven touchdowns while also rushing the ball 27 times for 284 yards and four more scores – both career highs for Cook. Throughout his career, he accounted for 2,233 yards of offensive production in four seasons with the Bulldogs. Additionally, Cook made his impact on the memorable game, rushing for 77 yards on six carries, including a momentum-shifting 67-yard rush.