James Cook Toe Injury: Bills’ Star RB Likely Out For Sunday’s Titans Game; When Could He Return?

The Bills missed the presence of their star rusher James Cook when they took on their divisional rivals, the Jets on Monday Night Football. Cook will likely sit out Sunday’s Titans game too, as he recuperates from a toe injury. He suffered the injury while attempting to catch a pass against the Texans.

Cook did not take part in two practices this week and was limited on Saturday. So, when can we expect him to return? Dr. Jesse Morse provided a timeline that could vary depending on the severity of the injury. Cook has a hyperextension of the great toe, commonly known as turf toe — a nagging and painful injury.

A Grade 1 injury can heal in about a week despite the severe pain. Cook could try to play this week if that was the case. However, a Grade 2 injury can take up to a month to recover.

Dr. Morse initially hoped it was a mild injury, but it turned out to be more serious. Cook could miss more than two weeks of football. He might return for the game against the Seahawks on October 27, or possibly in early November against the Dolphins.

James Cook

Potentially concerning new foot injury⁉️ pic.twitter.com/LIDdzn5rn7

— Jesse Morse, MD (@DrJesseMorse) October 9, 2024

So who can the Bills turn to for the time being to replace their star rusher?

James Cook’s replacement for upcoming fixtures

Aside from Cook, the Bills don’t have much experience in their ranks in the rushing department. They went with Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, and Frank Gore Jr for today’s game. Davis has 75 yards on 26 carries along with a TD.

Johnson on the other hand has carried the ball only ten times for 42 yards to go with his one TD. Gore Jr., son of legendary 49er RB, Frank Gore has been elevated from the practice squad to the main roster because of Cook’s injury.

#Bills RB James Cook — listed as questionable with a painful toe injury — will be inactive tonight against the #Jets, per me and @MikeGarafolo.

Cook is tough and wanted to go. Instead, it’ll be Ray Davis, Ty Johnson and Frank Gore Jr. tonight. pic.twitter.com/BW40PktXvr

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 14, 2024

After a perfect start to the season, Buffalo was in a bit of a slump, losing two consecutive matches. With their win over the Jets, they are now 4-2 in the season.