D. J. James

Desmond "D. J." James (born March 5, 2001) is an American professional football cornerback of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Oregon Ducks and Auburn Tigers.

Early life James grew up in Mobile, Alabama and attended Spanish Fort High School. He was rated a three-star recruit and initially committed to play college football at Mississippi State. James later flipped his commitment to Oregon.

College career James began his college career at Oregon. He had 46 tackles, two interceptions, and four passes broken up as a junior. Following the season, James entered the NCAA transfer portal.

James ultimately chose to transfer to Auburn. He was named second-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) in his first season with the Tigers after making 37 tackles with one interception and eight passes broken up.

James had his signature moment when playing against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, when he got his first interception for the Tigers and returned it 27 yards for a touchdown, cutting in front of the quarterback, Austin Reed. James ran through the middle and followed his blockers to flip into the end zone for a pick-six.

Professional career

Seattle Seahawks James was selected by the Seattle Seahawks with the 192nd overall pick in the sixth round in the 2024 NFL draft.

On July 18, 2024, James was placed on the active/NFI list. He was waived on August 27 as part of final roster cuts.

New England Patriots On September 16, 2024, James was signed to the New England Patriots practice squad. He signed a reserve/future contract with New England on January 6, 2025. James made the Patriots initial 53-man roster in 2025, but was waived on September 9.

Orlando Storm On May 8, 2026, James signed with the Orlando Storm of the United Football League (UFL).

New York Giants On August 4, 2026, James signed with the New York Giants after a successful workout. He was put on injured reserve on August 15. On September 1, 2026, James was released from injured reserve with an injury settlement.