Charles James is fighting for his NFL life on this season of Hard Knocks (getty).
Every year on the HBO Series Hard Knocks, NFL fans get an inside glimpse of the lives of some of the NFL’s biggest stars. This summer fans have been in awe at the superhuman of J.J. Watt, as well as the curious habits of star receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
While Hard Knocks loves to showcase the big names, the real storytelling is done through the players struggling to make the 53-man roster. The show extensively highlights rookies and new signings, as they adjust to life in Houston and the NFL. With hundreds of hours of footage, the show hopes to find a player with the charisma to make the show interesting, as well as the on-field talent to make the Texans roster.
With the season nearly over, the MVP of this season is undoubtedly Charles James. An undrafted corner from Charleston Southern, James is looking to get back in the league by making himself as valuable as possible. The Texans have depth at corner, but James’ plays on special teams have him making a case for a roster spot.
Here’s some more facts about James:
1. James Went Undrafted From Charleston Southern
Throughout preseason James has been popping up on defense or on special teams (Getty).
After a strong senior season at Charleston Southern University, Florida native Charles James entered the NFL Draft. While his name was never called, he was invited to training camp with the New York Giants.
James stuck around and earned a roster spot that season, and appeared in 12 games on special teams. James was not brought back for the 2014 season, and did not sign with any team. At 25 years old, James is looking get back into the league with the Houston Texans.
2. He is the MVP of Hard Knocks
After the physical feats of J.J. Watt and the foul-mouthed tirades from coach Bill O’Brien, Charles James has been one of the more entertaining aspects of this seasons’ Hard Knocks. Cameras first noticed James for his colorful socks, which he named his “Happy Socks”. While James’ game was strong from the knee down, he has also made several solid plays in training camp.
James has had bright spots throughout the season. After getting into an argument with a rookie safety, James has practiced every day with urgency. In the Texans’ second preseason game, Charles made several nice plays, including downing a punt deep inside enemy territory. His usefulness increased in Week 3, when Bill O’Brien experimented with using James as a backup running back.
No way Charles James doesn’t make team. He’s been impressive since start of OTAs. Coaches love him.
3. He Made the Giants in 2013 After a Strong Preseason
In 2013, James joined the Giants as an undrafted rookie free agent and fought for a spot on the team (Getty),
This isn’t the first time James has played his way onto a team. In 2013, James came from nowhere to fight for a place on the Giants roster. While he was originally assigned to the practice squad, he was signed in October and appeared in 12 games for Big Blue.
James has had some NFL success due to his work ethic and nose for the football. He is an extremely hard worker, and has a knack for appearing around the football in various situations.
4. The Texans Have Him Playing Both Ways
After a serious injury to Texans running back Arian Foster during training camp, the Texans have searched for a replacement to the star rusher. Backs Kenny Hilliard and Alfred Blue will most likely handle the duties, but O’Brien is exploring any and all options.
Last week, James began working with both the offense and defense. James is quick and shifty in the hole, exemplified by his long touchdown run in Sunday’s preseason game that was called back for a penalty. James isn’t seriously considered to receive touches, but his willingness to contribute to the Texans will make a stronger argument for his spot on the roster.
WOW! ex-#Giant CB CharlesJames @ShutDownCB1 – lining up as RB – bolted around RT for a 73 yd TD (called back-holding) in 4th qtr vs. Saints
If I could pull for a player to make #Texans‘ final 53, it’d totally be Charles James.
5. He’s Becoming Famous For His Socks
James was first noticed on this season of Hard Knocks for his “Happy Socks”, which have become a fan favorite (Twitter @ShutdownCB1)
Aside from being a great Twitter follow, James is now making a name for himself in the world of fashion. Since debuting his “Happy Socks” in the season premiere, James has received funky socks from numerous clothing companies.
Currently, the NFL will fine players who don’t wear league regulation socks. If James makes the 53-man roster, we’ll only be seeing the socks during press conferences if James doesn’t want to get fined.
Petition the league to allow Charles James to wear his happy socks
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Charles James: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know