The Buffalo Bills struggled to move the ball in last week’s loss to the Atlanta Falcons, scoring just one second-half touchdown despite some improved efforts from their defense. The team faced scrutiny after the game for their usage of running back James Cook, who was on the field for a little more than half of the offensive snaps despite being one of the most effective players.
### Bills Failed to Utilize James Cook
Throughout the season, the Bills have regularly taken Cook off the field on third downs, opting to insert backup Ty Johnson for his stronger blocking ability. This approach continued against the Falcons, with Cook participating in just over 50% of the offensive snaps.
Longtime Bills reporter and WGR 500 host Howard Simon was critical of the team’s decision post-game. “James Cook snap count last night was 52.6%. His 2nd lowest of the season,” Simon wrote on X. “Lowest was in the blowout win over the Jets. As per ESPN, Cook was not on the field for any of the Bills’ 9 plays on 3rd down or their 1 play on 4th down. That’s inexcusable.”
### Coaching Staff Responds
Head coach Sean McDermott has already addressed the issue. Speaking to reporters this week, he revealed that he has discussed Cook’s usage with offensive coordinator Joe Brady, emphasizing the importance of getting more out of their top running back moving forward.
“Joe and I have already talked about that to some extent today. It’s important to keep that in mind going forward,” McDermott said.
McDermott also touched on a specific late-game decision when the Bills called an end-around to wide receiver Elijah Moore on a failed third-and-one situation. While he didn’t openly criticize the play call itself, McDermott stressed the need for better execution: “Whatever play we call, we have to execute it at a higher level.”
Despite these challenges, Cook still managed 17 carries for 87 yards in Monday’s loss. However, his role in the passing game has diminished. He is currently averaging just 2.0 receptions for 14.8 receiving yards per game—the lowest since his rookie season when he split snaps with running backs Devin Singletary and Zack Moss.
### Bills Could Add Help at Trade Deadline
The Bills have now dropped two straight games, falling into a tie with the New England Patriots atop the AFC East. Currently, the Patriots hold the tiebreaker, raising the stakes for Buffalo as the season progresses.
After offensive struggles in recent weeks, some insiders suggest the Bills could look to bolster their roster before the upcoming NFL trade deadline. Sal Maiorana of the Democrat and Chronicle pointed to Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers as a potential target but also emphasized the possibility of elevating Gabe Davis from the practice squad.
“In his four seasons with the Bills, Davis averaged 16.7 yards per reception and caught 27 touchdown passes,” Maiorana wrote. “The now-injured Joshua Palmer is averaging 16.7 yards, but it’s on just 14 catches, one of which was a 45-yarder Monday. Among the receivers who get the lion’s share of the snaps, Shakir is 10.7 yards per catch, Coleman 9.9.”
As the Bills look to regain their offensive spark, increased involvement from players like James Cook and potential roster upgrades could be key to turning their season around.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/buffalo-bills/bills-sean-mcdermott-hints-changes-james-cook/
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