James Morgan (gridiron football)

James Morgan (born February 28, 1997) is an American professional football quarterback. He played college football for the Bowling Green Falcons and FIU Panthers before being selected by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL draft.

College career A three-star recruit from Ashwaubenon High School in suburban Green Bay, Wisconsin, Morgan chose Bowling Green for coach Dino Babers. Morgan redshirted his freshman year, and after that season, Babers left for Syracuse. After two years of new coach Mike Jinks' Air Raid offense, Morgan decided to transfer after the 2017 season, eventually landing on Florida International as his new school. Morgan emailed a transfer pitch to 20 schools, and FIU coach Bryn Renner was the only person who responded to the email. Due to Morgan finishing his prelaw degree during his three years at Bowling Green, he was eligible immediately at FIU as a graduate transfer.

After his senior season, Morgan played in the 2020 East–West Shrine Bowl, throwing a touchdown and helping the East team to victory. He also earned an invite to the 2020 NFL Combine.

Professional career

New York Jets (first stint) Morgan was selected by the New York Jets in the fourth round with the 125th overall pick of the 2020 NFL draft. On August 31, 2021, Morgan was waived by the Jets.

Carolina Panthers On September 2, 2021, Morgan was signed to the practice squad of the Carolina Panthers. He was released by the Panthers on November 12.

Pittsburgh Steelers On November 15, 2021, Morgan was signed to the Pittsburgh Steelers' practice squad. He was released by the Steelers on November 23.

New York Jets (second stint) On November 24, 2021, Morgan was signed to the Jets practice squad, but was released six days later.

Indianapolis Colts On December 6, 2021, Morgan was signed to the Indianapolis Colts' practice squad. He signed a reserve/future contract with Indianapolis on January 10, 2022. Morgan was released by the Colts on May 23.

Pittsburgh Maulers (first stint) Morgan signed with the Pittsburgh Maulers (USFL) of the United States Football League on September 26, 2022.

Arizona Cardinals On December 20, 2022, the Arizona Cardinals signed Morgan to their practice squad. On January 7, 2023, Morgan was released by the Cardinals.

Pittsburgh Maulers (second stint) On January 14, 2023, Morgan re-signed with the Maulers following his stint with the Cardinals. The Maulers folded when the XFL and USFL merged to create the United Football League (UFL).

Montreal Alouettes On January 17, 2024, Morgan signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League. He dressed in four games in 2024, but did not play or record any stats.

In 2025, Morgan began the year as the fourth string quarterback and was a healthy scratch, but dressed for games following an injury to the incumbent starter, Davis Alexander. He finished the game having completed 20 of 33 pass attempts for 211 yards with one passing touchdown and one interception in the team's 36–18 loss. Morgan was released on May 31 as part of final roster cuts.

Career statistics CFL Year Team Games Passing Rushing 2024 MTL 5 0 — 2025 MTL 10 2 0–2 55 93 59.1 547 5.9 2 4 65.1 6 17 2.1 0 Career 15 2 0–2 55 93 59.1 547 5.9 2 4 65.1 6 17 2.1 0

USFL Year Team Games Passing Rushing 2023 PIT 3 2 0–2 23 48 47.9 210 4.4 0 3 34.2 5 7 1.4 0

College

Personal life Morgan also played basketball and won a state championship in the 4x400 meter relay at Ashwaubenon High School. After his football career is over, Morgan plans on entering law school.