As Week 10 approaches, the Bills are keeping a close eye on two key pieces of their offense, running back James Cook and wide receiver Josh Palmer. Thursday’s injury updates offered a bit more clarity, and Buffalo is hoping to get both players back for this week’s divisional matchup in Miami.
What Is James Cook’s Week 10 Status?
After carrying the ball a career-high 27 times in a game, the Pro Bowl runner was bound to be rolled up on. It’s unclear exactly when the injury occurred, though some fans speculate it happened as early as the first drive. Despite the tough blow, Cook walked off the field normally and finished the contest, racking up 114 rushing yards in a huge win against Kansas City.
It was a surprise to many when the fourth-year back showed up on Wednesday’s injury report as a DNP with an ankle issue. Talk simmered down, however, after the November 6 practice report listed Cook as a full participant. He later appeared on the Kay Adams show, emphasizing, “I’m ready to go. I’ll be out there when it’s time to play on Sunday.”
Cook has been excellent this season, ranking second in rushing yards with 867, fourth in rushing touchdowns with 7, and first among all running backs in PFSN’s NFL RB Impact Meter.
Based on the practice report and Cook’s own words, it’s safe to say the Bills will have their star running back for Week 10.
If something unforeseen happens with Cook’s ankle, expect Ty Johnson to fill in and Ray Davis to continue his role as the third-down back.
What Is Josh Palmer’s Week 10 Status?
Joshua Palmer’s return from injury has been a bit complicated. The former LA Charger has appeared in six games this season, but he suffered an ankle injury during Buffalo’s Week 6 matchup against Atlanta. Palmer exited in the second quarter and did not return to the game.
After the Bills’ Week 7 bye, Palmer was listed as a DNP for three straight practices with both knee and ankle injuries, ultimately leading him to be ruled out for Week 8. In Week 9, he showed progress, moving from a Wednesday DNP to two limited practices on Thursday and Friday, but still missed the Sunday game.
Now, in Week 10, Palmer has a fair chance to play, having recorded back-to-back limited practices to start this week.
Thursday injury update.
Benford does not practice.
Epenesa & Thompson still sidelined.
Special teamer Sam Franklin added w/illness.
Bosa, Cook, T. Johnson, D. Jones back on practice field.
Bernard full go. #Bills pic.twitter.com/zbLZ8H9J91— Chris Brown (@ChrisBrownBills) November 6, 2025
One doctor on X noted: “the compression sleeve on the left leg, looks to have a little tape under the sock, don’t see a brace. Timeframe suggests he could play this weekend, we’ll see what Friday looks like.”
Joshua Palmer has recorded 14 catches for 234 yards in six games, establishing himself as a downfield weapon in the Bills’ offense.
As of November 7, his status remains uncertain, but if he participates fully in Friday’s practice, he should be good to go for Week 10.