The Buffalo Bills head into 2026 with the AFC East’s strongest running back tandem, and that’s not just because of James Cook’s star power.
Since Joe Brady took over the offense, Buffalo’s ground game has turned into one of the team’s clearest strengths. It wasn’t long ago that the rushing attack leaned heavily on Josh Allen, which put extra strain on the offense. Once Cook became the featured back, the Bills found a true focal point on the ground.
Cook has now posted three straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons, and last year he went all the way to the top of the league with 1,621 rushing yards. He has also scored 28 rushing touchdowns over the last two seasons. That kind of production would make him one of the league’s best backs on its own, but Buffalo’s depth has helped push the unit even further.
Ray Davis and Ty Johnson have both given the Bills steady production behind Cook, and Davis added another layer by becoming an All-Pro special teams returner. That versatility matters in a backfield that already does a lot of damage.
The offensive line has played a big role too, even with left guard David Edwards needing a replacement. Continuity up front has helped keep the whole operation moving.
That’s part of why Sayre Bedinger of NFL Spin Zone put Buffalo’s running back duo at No. 1 in his AFC East power rankings for 2026.
“ Last season, Cook finished with over 1,900 yards from scrimmage and 14 total touchdowns, and dare I say he's capable of a lot more in the passing game. He had 44 catches with 4 TDs back in his second NFL season, but he's had just 33 and 32 catches in the last two seasons, respectively.” said Bedinger.
“ Ray Davis was an All-Pro last season as a return man, averaging 30.4 yards per kickoff return with one touchdown. He added 4.7 yards per carry as a backup running back and over 360 yards from scrimmage offensively.” Bedinger added.
Breece Hall, De’Von Achane and Tre’Veyon Henderson all give their teams quality options, but Bedinger still gave Buffalo the edge. In his view, the Bills’ overall combination is the best in the division, and he said it isn’t particularly close.
With Joe Brady having been promoted to head coach, the expectation is that Buffalo’s run game stays central. Even with the addition of DJ Moore to help the passing attack, the Bills’ rushing identity does not appear to be going anywhere.
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