James Cook started the season with exactly the kind of performance Buffalo fans were hoping for. In a tight opening matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the three-time Pro Bowler flashed the versatility that made the Bills so eager to extend him this offseason. With over 100 yards from scrimmage in Week 1, Cook looked ready to cement his place as one of the AFC’s rising stars at the position.

But in the NFL, momentum can change quickly. As Buffalo turns its attention to a crucial Week 2 divisional clash with the New York Jets, Cook’s status has suddenly become a talking point. The reason? A hamstring issue that landed him on the Bills’ midweek injury report, raising questions about whether he will be available on Sunday night.

What Happened To James Cook?

The concern around Cook began when the Bills released their first injury report of the week. On Wednesday, his name appeared with a designation of “limited participant” due to a hamstring injury. Hamstring tweaks can be especially worrying for running backs, given the explosive acceleration and cutting their position demands. Even minor discomfort in that area can linger or be aggravated with one mistimed stride.

The situation seemed to improve by Thursday, when Cook was back on the field as a full participant in the team’s walkthrough. That shift from limited to full activity is encouraging, as teams tend to proceed with caution when it comes to soft-tissue issues.

The Bills have not elaborated on when exactly the problem surfaced, leaving some ambiguity as to whether it originated during the physical Week 1 matchup against Baltimore or cropped up in practice afterward. What is clear is that the staff is monitoring him closely while still allowing him to ramp up his workload.

It’s worth remembering just how much the Bills relied on Cook in the opener. He logged 13 carries for 44 yards and found the end zone once on the ground, while also hauling in five receptions for 58 yards. Altogether, he produced 102 yards from scrimmage and played 48 of Buffalo’s 85 offensive snaps. That kind of volume indicates how central he is to their game plan, which only heightens the importance of making sure his hamstring is fully ready before game day.

James Cook : 13 carries for 44 yards & a TD; 5 catches for 58 yards on 5 targets pic.twitter.com/fCEq4wPRMT

— Lee Harvey (@MusikFan4Life) September 8, 2025

Will Cook Play in Week 2?

Despite the midweek scare, all signs point to James Cook being available when the Bills take on the Jets. After his limited practice on Wednesday, his full participation on Thursday suggested the issue was more precautionary than severe. Team insiders and national reporters alike have echoed that optimism, with multiple outlets indicating that Cook is expected to be active on Sunday.

The most reassuring voice, however, came from the player himself. When asked about the injury and whether it would prevent him from playing, Cook brushed off the concerns with trademark confidence. “Nah, I’m good. I’m ready to go,” he said, putting to rest any speculation that he might miss time. That directness, combined with his progression in practice, strongly suggests that Bills fans can expect to see him in the backfield against New York.

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Still, it is worth noting that hamstrings are tricky injuries. Even if Cook is active, Buffalo’s coaching staff could choose to manage his workload carefully. Head coach Sean McDermott has often emphasized the importance of long-term health over short-term gain, so there remains the possibility that backups like Ty Johnson or sophomore Ray Davis get sprinkled in for additional carries.

The Jets’ defense is also known for its physicality, and the Bills may not want to risk overworking their starting back if the game script doesn’t demand it.