HC Sean McDermott on the Rookie Who Entered the NFL Hesitant, Became a Pro Bowler, and Ultimately the Team’s RB Icon

When Sean McDermott reflects on the growth of his players, few journeys better embody perseverance and transformation than that of Buffalo’s current star running back.

Arriving in the NFL as a rookie, he carried all the usual questions and doubts — would his game translate to the pros, could he withstand the physicality, and would he ever carve out a role in a Josh Allen-led offense? The early days were filled with learning curves, mistakes, and flashes of promise, but what followed has been nothing short of remarkable.

From his debut season, where he was used sparingly behind veteran backs, he gradually forced his way into the spotlight with a blend of speed, vision, and consistency. By his second year, he was already turning heads across the league, showing the potential to be far more than a supporting piece. In 2024, he broke through — over 1,000 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns, and a Pro Bowl selection that cemented his status among the AFC’s elite.

This September, the NFL handed him yet another recognition: AFC Offensive Player of the Month. For Buffalo fans, it wasn’t just about the stats — it was proof of how far he had come, from a quiet rookie to one of the faces of the franchise.

Coach McDermott could not hide his admiration when asked about the player’s development:
“He is a shining example for every rookie because of his relentless drive to improve. He gets better every single year. Right now, he’s a strategic piece we cannot do without. Josh Allen has been relieved of so much of the burden with him on the field. We’re always proud to have rookies like this,” McDermott said.

The rise has not only reshaped Buffalo’s offense but also energized the entire fan base. Bills Mafia, long accustomed to leaning heavily on their quarterback, now celebrates the balance and explosiveness this running back provides.

And the name of the player who has walked this inspiring path? None other than James Cook, who has grown from a rookie full of questions into a Pro Bowler — and now, the heartbeat of Buffalo’s rushing attack.