Alvin Kamara vs James Cook: Who Should You Start?
James Cook and Alvin Kamara are at different tiers heading into 2026. The Buffalo Bills running back averaged 16.8 PPG in 2025, a full 9.1 points per game ahead of Alvin Kamara's 7.7 with the New Orleans Saints. That kind of gap doesn't close on matchup alone.
The per-game difference of 9.1 points favors James Cook, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Alvin Kamara ran for 471 yards and 1 touchdowns; James Cook posted 1621 and 12. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
Both share a Week 12 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking running backs this deep on your bench, plan your replacement running back early.
