sportingnews
James Cook emerged from the tunnel at SoFi Stadium with a dejected expression, a stark contrast to what one might expect from a running back who had just amassed 100 yards and two touchdowns in a victorious effort. Yet, his somber demeanor was justified after he nearly cost his team the game with critical mistakes.
Cook, widely regarded as the Bills' top offensive threat outside of Josh Allen, put the ball on the ground twice during Monday Night Football. His second fumble occurred in overtime and would have sealed a loss for Buffalo had the Rams not had a field goal blocked.
Given that Cook has now fumbled four times in just five games, there is a real possibility that his workload could shrink in the coming weeks.
Fumbling Issues Not New for Cook
Cook's ball security problems are not limited to Monday's game against the Rams. Last season, he led all running backs with six fumbles. Through the first five games of this season, he has already coughed it up four times.
Cook is not a versatile running back; he does not contribute as a receiver or pass blocker. His primary role is to run fast and protect the football. Unfortunately, he has struggled with the latter.
Buffalo's coaching staff has demonstrated a willingness to limit Cook's snaps when he makes mistakes. In his rookie season, he played just 44% of the offensive snaps, and that figure rose to 56% last year. This season, his snap share has jumped to around 70%, but that could change after a night of ball security issues.
The Bills have relied on Ty Johnson on third downs for years, and Ray Davis has given maximum effort in the backfield. The team has alternatives behind the talented Cook.
Bright Spot Amidst the Struggle
One positive takeaway: even after Cook's costly overtime turnover, the Bills still trusted him with the ball on the game-winning drive. Nevertheless, Cook walked into the locker room with a solemn face and slumped posture.
He can only hope that he has merely fumbled the football and not his opportunity to remain Buffalo's workhorse running back.
Originally reported by sportingnews.