Class of 2018 Finalist Spotlight: Edgerrin James

Former running back Edgerrin James was recently named a finalist for the Class of 2018. If elected, he would be the 33rd running back enshrined into the Hall. Since 2009, there have been seven running backs who have entered the Hall.

University of Miami running back Edgerrin James was selected in the first round, 4th overall, of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. The team had great expectations for James as he was picked to replace the recently traded and future Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk. James did not disappoint.

His powerful running style and versatility led to a spectacular start to his career. James was tabbed as the NFL’s Rookie of the Year in 1999, captured NFL rushing titles in his first two seasons (1,553 yards in 1999 and career-best 1,709 yards in 2000) and scored 13 rushing TDs in each of his first two campaigns. He also caught 62 passes and 4 TDs as a rookie and a career-high 63 receptions and 5 TDs in his second season.

James led the team in rushing in six of his seven seasons in Indianapolis and was a key to the potent Colts offense that helped them win four division titles and post six seasons with 10 or more wins.

Prior to the 2006 season, James signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an unrestricted free agent and continued his all-star play. He rushed for 1,000 yards twice in three seasons with the Cardinals and helped them win the NFC West title in 2008 (the team’s first division championship in 33 years) and a berth in Super Bowl XLIII.

James eclipsed 1,000 yards in a season seven times during his career and topped 1,500 yards four times. A four-time Pro Bowl choice, James rushed 12,246 yards on 3,028 carries and 80 TDs during his 11-year career which ended with a final season with the Seattle Seahawks in 2009.

A three-time All-Pro choice (1999-2000 and 2004) and All-AFC selection four times (1999-2000, 2004-05), James was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of 2000s.

James created the Edgerrin James Foundation in 2000. The non-profit organization was created to improve the decision-making process of youth and young adults, enhancing the quality of their lives, and empowering them to make positive contributions to society through sports training and health related programs.

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