Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is on pace for another historic NFL season, but his recent fumbling issues have sparked questions about whether Joe Brady should reduce his playing time. That could be a massive mistake for Buffalo's offense. Cook has been one of the NFL's most explosive running backs, and despite concerns about ball security, the Bills cannot afford to take their biggest rushing weapon off the field. After rushing for more than 1,600 yards while averaging 5.2 yards per carry last season, Cook is currently on pace to surpass 1,800 rushing yards in 2026 while averaging 5.6 yards per attempt. Those are elite numbers. The Buffalo Bills also lead the NFL with 49 explosive offensive plays, nine more than the Baltimore Ravens. Cook has been a major reason for that success. But there's another problem with how Buffalo is using its star running back. According to statistics highlighted by Locked On Bills host Joe Marino, 36% of Cook's rushing attempts have come in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, only 24% come in the first quarter, 22% in the second and 17% in the third. Should Joe Brady be getting James Cook involved earlier? We examine why Buffalo needs to establish its rushing attack sooner, how Cook's explosive ability helps Josh Allen and why benching him over fumbling concerns could create even bigger problems. With Ray Davis and Ty Johnson available, Buffalo has depth at running back, but neither provides the same consistent big-play threat as Cook. The Bills are 4-1 despite significant defensive struggles, making their offensive production even more important. Could giving James Cook 20 to 25 carries per game be the key to Buffalo's success? #BuffaloBills #BillsMafia #JamesCook Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez IMAGN Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25.
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is on pace for another historic NFL season, but his recent fumbling issues have sparked questions about whether Joe Brady should reduce his playing time. That could be a massive mistake for Buffalo's offense. Cook has been one of the NFL's most explosive running backs, and despite concerns about ball security, the Bills cannot afford to take their biggest rushing weapon off the field. After rushing for more than 1,600 yards while averaging 5.2 yards per carry last season, Cook is currently on pace to surpass 1,800 rushing yards in 2026 while averaging 5.6 yards per attempt. Those are elite numbers. The Buffalo Bills also lead the NFL with 49 explosive offensive plays, nine more than the Baltimore Ravens. Cook has been a major reason for that success. But there's another problem with how Buffalo is using its star running back. According to statistics highlighted by Locked On Bills host Joe Marino, 36% of Cook's rushing attempts have come in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, only 24% come in the first quarter, 22% in the second and 17% in the third. Should Joe Brady be getting James Cook involved earlier? We examine why Buffalo needs to establish its rushing attack sooner, how Cook's explosive ability helps Josh Allen and why benching him over fumbling concerns could create even bigger problems. With Ray Davis and Ty Johnson available, Buffalo has depth at running back, but neither provides the same consistent big-play threat as Cook. The Bills are 4-1 despite significant defensive struggles, making their offensive production even more important. Could giving James Cook 20 to 25 carries per game be the key to Buffalo's success? #BuffaloBills #BillsMafia #JamesCook Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez IMAGN
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