Maybe set expectations differently? If they said it'll be done Spring 2027, then the perception is OMG they got it done early. But by saying it'll be done for the 2026 season, this makes it look late. Always under promise so you can over deliver.
So long as it's open for 2026 season & even if it isn't so long as they've got a place to play, I don't really care. Would be awkward if they tore the old one down then realized the new one wasn't going to be ready in time. 😂
It sounds like we agree Cook is a great weapon but blocking is not his strong suit. It may very well be that some teams will scheme around this as you say. It doesn't make him a better blocking back. And on 3rd and obvious passing downs that can be an issue. (Again, I'm not saying Cook isn't a very good back. I agree 100% he's a great weapon). But Barkley & Henry are great weapons who are also very good blocking backs. That difference has added value, where you do not have to change your scheme to hide a deficiency. Which is why they are the highest paid & why I don't think the Bills will pay Cook as much as those 2 (though I think they might be willing to pay just below that).
He's not a 3 down back. Not very good in pass protection. Henry & Barkley are. That's a big part of the difference in the value.
As to whether RB's in general are worth the money or not, it's an open and fair debate. Eagles won w/ Barkley last year. Prior to that KC won a bunch without paying a lot for a RB, New England was the same. I don't know, every situation is different. If it's the right back with the right team it could be worth it. But not every back and every team would make it worth it.
Completely agree Henry is a better back who should get paid more. Not sure Cook sees it that way though. He was asking for more than Henry got before & so might ask for more now. Beane shouldn't & won't pay that high. Would just like to temper Cook's expectations.
Depends, on injuries, how the team comes together, how they're playing come playoff time, & matchups. Also takes a bit of luck. I think we're built better to stop KC, but what about physical running teams like Baltimore or Philly?