Cory James

Cory Miguel James (born May 22, 1993) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Colorado State Rams, and was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL draft.

Early life James attended Del Rio High School, in Del Rio, Texas where he lettered twice in football. As a junior in 2009, he started all 13 games. As a senior in 2010, he started the first eight games before suffering a torn left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Before suffering the injury, he had recorded, combined as a junior and senior, 116 tackles, 26 tackles-for-loss, 11 sacks, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Despite his injury, James was voted the District 29-5A Co-Linebacker of the Year as well as First-team All-District for the second consecutive year.

While at Del Rio High School, James also played on the schools baseball team. As a football player, he was recruited by TCU, New Mexico, Colorado, Texas State, Louisiana Tech and East Carolina Pirates football.

Professional career

Oakland Raiders James was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the sixth round (194th overall) of the 2016 NFL draft. The Raiders previously traded linebacker Sio Moore to the Indianapolis Colts to obtain the selection used on James. On May 20, 2016, he signed a four-year contract worth $2,472,480, including a $132,480 signing bonus. He played in all 16 games with five starts, recording 48 tackles and one forced fumble.

James entered the 2017 season as one of the Raiders' starting outside linebackers. He started nine out of ten games played while dealing with a knee injury throughout the season. He missed two straight games before being placed on injured reserve on December 13, 2017 with the knee injury.

On May 4, 2018, James was waived by the Raiders with a failed physical designation.

Calgary Stampeders James signed with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League on March 31, 2020. He was released on July 29, 2021.

Personal life Cory James is the son of Clarence and Sheila James. He also has one older brother, Zachary James. While in college, James volunteered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America in Larimer County, Colorado.