Bills minicamp: Brady addresses Cook’s return, Williams’ injury and left guard battle

The Buffalo Bills commenced their mandatory minicamp in Orchard Park on Tuesday, with head coach Joe Brady addressing several key developments ahead of training camp. A primary focus was the return of running back James Cook, who attended the facility after missing the voluntary offseason workouts. The coaching staff interpreted his absence not as a contract dispute, but as a period of remote training in Florida with his own trainers, a move Brady praised as indicative of Cook’s strong work ethic.

Cook, who carried the ball a career-high 309 times last season, was seen at the facility on Monday. Brady noted that while he would like to involve backups Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, and Frank Gore Jr. more frequently, Cook’s high-level performance and rhythm justified his heavy workload in the previous year. The head coach emphasized that the team remains in touch with Cook and is excited to have him back with the group.

Defensive end Dorian Williams, who suffered a neck injury on the opening kickoff of the previous season’s playoff loss in Denver, was not on the field during Tuesday’s session. He was observed using crutches in the weight room, indicating a lingering issue. Brady declined to specify the nature or timing of the injury but stated that Williams is in a “great head space” and the team anticipates he will be ready for training camp.

Roster competition is also intensifying at left guard following the free agency departure of David Edwards. With the team currently practicing without pads, physical evaluations are limited, and Brady described the competition between Austin Corbett, Alec Anderson, and others as being on pause regarding physicality. The focus at this stage is on technique and communication, with Brady noting that the true nature of the battle will emerge when pads are introduced.

The Bills are also evaluating the positional fit of a seventh-round pick from the International Pathway Program, a former rugby player who has transitioned from offensive to defensive line. Brady highlighted the player’s athletic potential, describing him as one of the most explosive athletes on the team. The move to the defensive side was driven by his physical attributes rather than any deficiencies in his offensive line play, with the team eager to see how his skill set translates to the other side of the ball.