James Cook Transitioning Into Starting Role for Buffalo Bills

Former Georgia running back James Cook is expected to be the star running back for the Buffalo Bills in 2023.

Georgia's football program has taken the NFL by storm over the last two seasons, as 25 total players were selected by franchises in the last two draft classes. Former Bulldogs are littered all over active NFL rosters, and some are starting to really settle in with their new teams. One of those players is running back James Cook with the Buffalo Bills. 

Last season as a rookie, Cook was the second option behind NFL veteran Devin Singletary. As the 2023 season approaches, Cook has emerged as the Bills' starting running back, with Singletary now with the Houston Texans and Cook coming off of a solid rookie season. On 89 carries, the former Bulldog rushed for 507 yards, two touchdowns, and averaged 5.7 yards per carry in his first season as a professional. 

In an interview at the Bills' training camp, Cook talked about the heightened expectations for him heading into his second season and how he is taking on his new role. Cook said, "Just take every opportunity I get now and just picture myself in a game with me now being the starting guy and just getting myself going." 

Georgia running back James Cook (4) during the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship against Alabama at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis, Ind., on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022. (Photo by Tony Walsh)

Georgia utilized Cook's unique skill set during his college days by not only allowing him to tote the rock and catch balls out of the backfield but also, at times, by lining him out on the boundary as a wide receiver essentially. The Bills have spent the offseason plugging Cook in at different positions on the field in hopes of really tapping into his potential as an offensive weapon on all parts of the field. 

The Bulldogs have some recent history with success at the running back position, with Nick Chubb being the most prominent figure at the moment, and Cook could help keep that trend alive in his new role at Buffalo. And with all of the noise that former Georgia players are making in training camp this year, he won't be the only former Bulldog to have a big 2023 season. 

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• Preseason All-SEC Teams Released

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