Jordan James, RB, Oregon
Size:
Height: 5094
Weight: 205
Arm: 29 ¾”
Hand: 9 ½”
Accomplishments:
Four-star recruit
“Jordan James has the physical temperament to run in between the tackles, while also having the speed to beat defenders to the perimeter on outside runs.”
Strengths:
Dense, sturdy build
Runs hard and behind his pads/forward leaner
Quick accelerator
One-cut back/gets vertical into the defense
Patient runner following lead blockers to daylight
Concerns:
Lacking home-run, long speed
Role-specific
Contact balance
Pass protection experience
Film Analysis:
The 2024 season featured a new role for Jordan James, as he was the lead back of the rushing attack. James not only filled the role as the lead back for Oregon effectively, but he also became the engine and consistent part of this Oregon offense early on in the season. James' reliability and effectiveness proved to be an important piece to the Oregon offense and a key reason why they were able to go through the regular season as the No. 1-ranked team in the country. James proved in 2024 that he is a scheme-versatile back who, because of his athleticism and natural instincts, is effectively asked to execute a variety of different run plays. NFL talent evaluators will appreciate James' run style and in 2024, James put on film that he is capable of filling the role of a No. 1 running back effectively and efficiently.
James thrived working off defensive contact and establishing a physical mindset for the Oregon offense. James ran for more than 1,200 yards and averaged more than five yards per carry. He can absorb contact and continue fighting upfield for more yards. James runs hard and behind his pads, making it difficult to bring him down with initial contact. He is a forward leaner with downhill momentum. He will run through the defender’s chest and arm tackles.
James possesses good vision and quick processing skills to find running lanes. He reads zone blocks well and has quick footwork to cut upfield when the outside is secured by the defense. On gap runs, he follows blocks well with good patience before putting his burst/acceleration to good use. James changes directions well with quickness to make defenders miss in the alley. He does a good job getting small to fit in smaller creases on the OL.
James is a good pass-catcher. He runs solid routes out of the backfield. He operates as a check-down/safety valve option for the QB. He tracks and catches the ball well on downfield targets. He plays with good confidence in his ability.
James is a talented RB who proved in his first year as the full-time starter that he can handle a full workload as an RB1. James projects to the NFL as a player who can operate as a RB1 but the backfield will be best served if there is also a complementary skill set to what James offers.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Developmental Traits
Exposures: Ohio State (2024), Ohio State (2025), Michigan (2024), Wisconsin (2024), Portland (2023), Washington (2023), Washington State (2023), Stanford (2023)
