Overview

• He announced his retirement on July 19 in a post on X, revealing his knee never healed and he had been playing hurt since 2022.
• James entered the league as a seventh-round pick from Middle Tennessee State in 2018 and capped his career with a Super Bowl LVIII ring.
• Over seven seasons he carved out roles on special teams and as a gadget receiver for the 49ers, Giants and Chiefs.
• After going unsigned in 2024 the Chiefs and other teams opted for younger receivers and return specialists in his place.
• His journey highlights how versatility can extend a late-round pick’s tenure even as injuries and roster economics ultimately prevail.