With just a few weeks left until teams return for training camp, the Patriots have some things to look forward to that go beyond the city limits of Foxboro, Massachusetts. Because Mike Vrabel has made it clear that the team will be monitoring any potential trade opportunities, especially the top players on track for a holdout, there could be ample opportunity on the way to put the Patriots' roster over the top.
Making the potential developments even better is the unraveling situation right in the AFC East involving the reigning divisional champions, the Buffalo Bills.
Although whatever happens in the near future with James Cook might not directly benefit New England, like seeing the running back suit up in Patriots garb this fall, a deterioriting relationship between the Bills and their star player would allow the Patriots to reap the ultimate reward in their hope of regaining control over the division they dominated for two decades.
Based on the latest updates regarding Cook's status, it doesn't appear that a resolution is imminent, putting Buffalo in a problematic position to figure it out or risk creating a distraction that could inevitably derail their 2025 season.
The Patriots should be paying close attention to the James Cook situation ahead of the 2025 season
Dealing with a player threatening to hold out over a contract dispute is never something a team wants to deal with, but that looks to be the case for the Bills and Cook, as he skipped voluntary spring workouts and reportedly only attended mandatory minicamp to avoid the fines that come from his absence.
Although he claims to have "no hard feelings" over the situation, Cook has made it clear what he's looking for in a contract extension, and so far, the Bills are not willing to give him what he feels he deserves, likely due to the constant overlooking of running backs across the league.
The future doesn't look too good for Cook, either, as the regime in Buffalo has failed to extend extensions to two other running backs they have drafted in the past, putting their latest star player on the outside looking in. That's something the Patriots should be excited about, as he has recorded 73 carries for 341 yards and two touchdowns, plus 15/17 receptions for 115 yards and two more scores in six games against them.
Stripping Josh Allen of a certified weapon from his offense would be a gift to the Patriots defense in their two 2025 matchups, especially since they have struggled against the run in recent years.
It's certainly something to monitor moving forward, even if there's no chance the rival teams would ever reach a deal to send Cook to New England. The possibility that he won't be in Buffalo much longer, or even this season, is enough to be excited about and pay attention to as the season nears.