The Buffalo Bills have not yet extended star running back James Cook… and do not appear to have any quick intentions to do so.
If both sides are unable to reach an agreement, the team may look for someone to fill the void he leaves.
Brentley Weissman of PFN just published an article in which he assembled a very early mock for the 2026 NFL Draft. With the 30th pick in the first round, he believes the current AFC East winners should target Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton.
“Singleton is a hard-nosed runner who runs with power and violence, but he also has the home run speed to break long runs,” Weissman points out. “Buffalo may not want to extend James Cook and give him the contract he desires, but adding a dynamic bellcow simply makes too much sense. Singleton would provide Buffalo with a workhorse running back who might thrive in Josh Allen’s playbook.
The team might still bring Cook back, but they should buy some insurance just to be sure.
Singleton ended his junior season at Penn State with 1,099 running yards and 12 touchdowns. He was also able to display his flexibility with 375 yards and five touchdowns through the air.
Superstar quarterback Josh Allen would love to have a running back that can assist in the receiving game, as Cook has had a lot of success doing so.
The Bills’ starting running back could return, but picking Singleton in the 2026 Draft is something the organization should seriously consider.