James Cook extends Bills award run

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) — A 2-0 start to this season has produced consecutive player of the week awards for the Buffalo Bills.

Running back James Cook was selected as the AFC’s top offensive performer for his role in Buffalo’s 31-10 win at Miami in Week 2. That follows Greg Rousseau receiving the defensive player of the week award after the Bills beat the Cardinals in the home opener.

Bills coach Sean McDermott said the individual recognition reflects on the entire team. “Those honors don’t happen by themselves,” he said. “But it’s great recognition for those guys. Those two guys work extremely hard and I know they’re set on improving each and every week. So I’m happy to see those guys get acknowledged.”

Cook totaled 103 yards and scored three touchdowns against the Dolphins. He tied a team record for touchdowns in the first half, and became the first Bills player since Thurman Thomas in 1992 to have two rushing and one receiving TDs in a game.

“His day to day approach is so steady, focused on what he needs to do to improve,” McDermott said. “And really just a delight to watch a young man come here from South Florida and really embrace Buffalo and the community, and focus, really hone in on his job and what he’s trying to do — I know it means a lot to him — his part. And that’s what you’re seeing unfold here.”

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Jonah Bronstein joined the WIVB squad in 2022 as a digital sports reporter. The Buffalonian has covered the Bills, Sabres, Bandits, Bisons, colleges, high schools and other notable sporting events in Western New York since 2005, for publications including The Associated Press, The Buffalo News, and Niagara Gazette. Read more of his work here .