Buffalo Bills RB James Cook Ranked Outside Top Five Despite Rushing Title

James Cook posted a career‑best 2025 season with 1,621 rushing yards, the most in the NFL and the Bills' first rushing championship since 1976. The 2022 second‑round pick recorded his third straight 1,000‑yard season, earned a third consecutive Pro Bowl nod and posted 5.2 yards per carry, second best in the league. Despite these achievements, Sports Illustrated’s preseason position‑by‑position rankings placed Cook at No. 8, leaving him out of the Top 5 running backs. Analysts from SI, NFL.com and other outlets praised his consistency and value, noting his role as the team's primary offensive weapon alongside quarterback Josh Allen.