Bills HC Joe Brady puts RB James Cook on notice over fumbling issues

Buffalo Bills head coach Joe Brady put running back James Cook on notice Tuesday over his fumbling issues, saying in the nicest and kindest way possible that there will be consequences if they continue — including a reduction in carries.

Cook fumbled during Monday night's 37-34 overtime win over the Rams, and Brady's warning landed with the stakes spelled out. In the same breath, though, Brady showed he still trusts his featured back: Cook got the ball on the very next drive in overtime.

The juxtaposition — public warning, then another touch in the biggest moment — captures where the Bills' coaching staff stands. Brady's message, relayed by the Buffalo reporters at his Tuesday press conference, was direct: protect the football, or the carries will dwindle. Cook has been the engine of Buffalo's running game alongside Josh Allen, and while the Bills sit 4-1 after the overtime escape at SoFi Stadium, the head coach made clear that turnovers cannot happen for a team with Super Bowl expectations.