Bills’ Sean McDermott confirms a huge boost as the 24-year-old RB, who faced uncertainty earlier in the week due to an illness, returns ahead of the Chargers’ matchup…

Buffalo Bills’ running back James Cook, who faced uncertainty earlier in the week due to an illness, now seems likely to rejoin the team for a crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on December 23. The Bills, aiming to bolster their playoff aspirations, recognize the significance of this must-win game. Cook’s recent performance in the team’s 31-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys showcased his prowess, accumulating career-best stats with 25 carries for 179 yards and two touchdowns, along with two catches for 42 yards.

Despite his outstanding performance, Cook missed Wednesday’s practice, raising concerns about his availability for Saturday’s game. However, Bills head coach Sean McDermott provided a positive update, expressing optimism that Cook would recover in time for both Thursday’s practice and the upcoming matchup against the Chargers. McDermott’s reassurance was shared by The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia on social media, confirming that Cook is expected to be fully ready for the game.

The Bills, currently holding an 8-6 record, secured a significant win against the Cowboys but find themselves just outside the playoff bracket due to tiebreakers. This weekend’s clash with the Chargers offers them a promising opportunity to regain ground, especially considering the Chargers’ challenges with key injuries. Star quarterback Justin Herbert is sidelined for the season, and wide receiver Keenan Allen has been ruled out of the upcoming game. Advanced projections by Quarter4 give the Bills a win probability exceeding 90%, emphasizing their favorable position.

🔊This is the “curveball” and style of play the Bills offense has been missing for several years.

Let James COOK!!https://t.co/OOrAN5xlCw pic.twitter.com/OrNGlgwu0N

— Erik Turner Cover 1 Jefe (@ErikJTurner) December 19, 2023

However, the Bills are not without concerns, as they face the potential loss of another key running back, Ty Johnson. Johnson suffered a shoulder injury during the victory over the Cowboys, prompting post-game X-rays. Elevated from the practice squad after Damien Harris landed on injured reserve, Johnson holds the No. 2 role behind Cook. Despite being listed as limited in both Wednesday and Thursday practices, his availability for the Chargers game remains uncertain.

In the event Johnson is unable to play, the Bills may turn to veteran Leonard Fournette, who could be elevated from the practice squad to make his season debut with the team. Fournette expressed his readiness and confidence, acknowledging the challenges of being on the practice squad but emphasizing his preparedness to contribute when given the opportunity. The running back situation adds an element of uncertainty to the Bills’ preparation for the crucial matchup, as they navigate potential changes in their backfield ahead of the game against the Chargers.