There have been seen quite a few college football players with NFL fathers in recent seasons, and Eden James is part of the list.
While a standout player in his own right, the Howard running back is best known for being the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Edgerrin James. Nevertheless, the younger James is blazing his own path while also shining a spotlight on the HBCU landscape.
Howard RB Eden James More Than Son of NFL Hall of Famer
While James’ numbers weren’t gaudy at Treasure Coast High School in Port Saint Lucie, Fla. — he ran for 750 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior — he helped power the school to a 9-1 record and a second-round appearance in the 8A state playoffs.
His performance was far from prolific, but it was enough to earn scholarship offers from Air Force, Indiana, Miami, and Wake Forest. Of course, having an NFL legend as a father certainly helps. Yet, James chose to forge his own path and continue the family legacy at Howard, where his oldest sister, Edquisha, graduated.
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“They showed nothing but consistent interest,” James said in an Instagram post announcing his decision. “Everybody assumed I would go to one of the big schools, but I just thought the HBCU route would be something different — especially since it’s becoming a trend now.
“Hopefully, I’m able to be one of those key, contributing pieces to show that you don’t have to go to a big-time school to make it to the league, if that’s what’s in the books for me.”
James hit the ground running with the Bison, taking 75 carries for 406 yards and two scores, earning third-team All-MEAC honors. But it wasn’t until 2023 that defenses began game planning for him in the backfield.
As Howard road the rushing attack to a Celebration Bowl berth, James generated 627 yards and two scores on the ground, adding another 169 yards and a TD as a receiver.
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However, James wasn’t alone in the backfield, with starter Jarett Hunter recording a 142-626-9 rushing line. The duo received second-team all-conference recognition for their efforts and entered the 2024 season as one of the best tandems in the FCS.
James may carry the weight of a famous name, but he’s creating a footprint at Howard that goes beyond the shadow of his NFL Hall of Fame father.
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