A Buffalo Bills team hoping to make another run is relying on a new core group of players. Their intent is to stay ahead of the competitive curve in the NFL. Most recently, the franchise has solidified its commitment to long-term development by extending the contracts of three core players. Particularly impressive were Dalton Kincaid and Keon Coleman. This move comes on the heels of Josh Allen‘s restructured contract, which rewards the franchise quarterback for his pivotal role in the team’s success.
As the Bills move further into this new era, they are hoping to develop their impressive 2022 draft class. This cohort has proven to be incredibly inspiring already! The quartet of James Cook, Christian Benford, Khalil Shakir, and Terrel Bernard all agreed to four-year extensions this summer. All of these players are key to realizing the team’s hopes for a deep playoff run in the 2023 season.
Whether James Cook’s breakout 2024 season—18 touchdowns, the whole bit! He is back on track to join to notch big league service and take his game to an even higher level. His strong play this year has even earned a shout out from Paul Allen, who pointed to Cook as a “breakout season” candidate. The Bills plan to utilize Cook in a rotation to manage his workload and ensure his health throughout the season.
Of course, that all happens amid a lot of roster turnover for the Bills. They traded away star receiver Stefon Diggs, released veteran mainstays like Jordan Poyer after the 2023 season. These moves have thrust opportunities to fill vital roles onto younger players, allowing them to prove themselves and step up.
…I want the players to feel that it is their time, that they really can get there.” — Sean McDermott, head coach, Buffalo Bills He was buoyed by the fact that the pathway continues to be open for players to step up and raise their games.
“There’s still a runway out in front of these guys to continue to develop,” – Sean McDermott
Khalil Shakir, among others, is likely the player given the greatest opportunity to address the diminished skill talent. He’s been considered a great candidate to head the team in receiving yards for a third straight year. Shakir has taken to his complementary role next to Allen, crediting his first-round quarterback for how much he’s grown since arriving in Buffalo.
“I’m playing with the best football player in the league — Josh Allen,” – Khalil Shakir
Allen has complimented Shakir’s improvement and work ethic. He said that Shakir represents the best in work ethic and dedication. Greg Rousseau is committed to that same purpose, both on the field and off of it.
“Him and Greg are both guys that just do everything the right way… they are there at the very beginning of the day, first ones in, last ones out,” – Josh Allen
Bernard has emerged with surprising leadership chops on the field. If he can be the third man on the totem pole after Cook and Shakir, he’ll have done considerably well. He wants to be a role model for younger players and has always taken great pride in being a good teammate.
“To be someone other players can look to is what I’ve been trying to do since I’ve been here,” – Terrel Bernard
Bernard’s desire to truly lead by example shines through in his work ethic and team-first mentality.
“So, to have that, set that as an example… it’s a big thing for me and I really don’t take it lightly,” – Terrel Bernard
The Bills’ approach seems intent on growing their young players while making the most of the prime years of stars like Allen. The restructuring of Allen’s contract fits with this vision, granting him a deal commensurate with the rate at which he leads this new core.
Head coach James Cook thanked the organization for their trust in him shown by the extension of his contract. He knows that this is only the first step in earning the right to stick around for more than a moment.
“The guys that came in with me, we all got rewarded… now it’s time for us to go play football and show why we belong here,” – James Cook
Cook’s sentiments are indicative of the overall mindset shared by these young players. They just want to prove themselves when the whistle blows. The organization is based on the firm belief that gifted players can be transformed into great players and great players can learn to become elite players.
“Good players becoming great, great players becoming elite, right? That’s what’s left for these guys to do,” – Sean McDermott
With these extensions and renewed expectations, the Bills are laying the groundwork for a long run of competitiveness. The emphasis is on developing talent. Constructing chemistry around Allen will be important, considering his leadership will help navigate the ship and steer the team as the tumultuous season approaches.
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