Andre James Bio
Andre James is an American professional football center who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). Born on May 2, 1997, in Herriman, Utah, James has built a solid career in professional football despite entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Over his time with the Oakland Raiders and now the Chargers, he has established himself as a reliable and durable center known for his resilience, technical skill, and leadership on the offensive line.
Early Life and Background
Andre James grew up in South Jordan, Utah, where he attended Herriman High School. During his high school career, he was a standout athlete, participating in both football and track and field. On the football field, James was a first-team All-State selection as a senior while playing offensive tackle. His athletic abilities were further demonstrated in track and field, where he became a three-time class 5A state champion in the shot put.
James was highly regarded as a football prospect, earning a four-star recruiting rating. He received scholarship offers from several major college programs, including Oregon, USC, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Utah. Ultimately, he chose to continue his football career at the University of California, Los Angeles, committing to play for the UCLA Bruins.
Path to the NFL
At UCLA, James redshirted his true freshman season to adjust to the college level. During his redshirt freshman year, an injury to Kolton Miller created an opportunity, and James stepped into the starting lineup. From that point forward, he became a consistent presence on the Bruins offensive line, starting the final 32 games of his collegiate career while appearing in 35 games total.
James demonstrated not only physical talent but also remarkable mental toughness during his college career. As a redshirt junior, he made the decision to play in UCLA week seven game against Arizona, continuing his consecutive games started streak just days after his father passed away from cancer. This display of dedication and resilience foreshadowed the character traits that would define his professional career. James declared for the NFL Draft on December 18, 2018, forgoing his final season of NCAA eligibility.
Andre James Career
Early Career with Oakland Raiders (2019–2020)
Despite going undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft, James signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent on May 3, 2019. The signing brought him together again with his former UCLA teammate Kolton Miller, who was then playing tackle for the Raiders. This connection helped James acclimate to the professional level and the NFL environment.
James made his NFL debut on September 9, 2019, in the season opener against the Denver Broncos. His first career start came in Week 9 of that season, when he stepped in at center to replace the injured Rodney Hudson. As a rookie, James appeared in 12 games with one start, gaining valuable experience that would serve him well in his development.
Raiders Breakthrough and Starting Role (2021–2024)
James emerged as the Raiders full-time starting center beginning in 2021. His performance and consistency earned him a three-year, $12.5 million contract extension on March 22, 2021, a significant deal that reflected the team’s confidence in his abilities. He started every game at center for the Raiders over the following three seasons, becoming a reliable anchor for the offensive line.
The Raiders demonstrated their continued commitment to James by signing him to another contract extension on March 11, 2024. This three-year, $24 million deal further cemented his status as a key player for the organization. Throughout his tenure with the Raiders, James developed a reputation for durability, consistency, and the ability to make protective adjustments at the line of scrimmage.
Los Angeles Chargers Era (2025–Present)
James began a new chapter in his career when the Raiders released him on March 12, 2025. Less than a week later, on March 18, 2025, he signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. This move brought him to a new team and a new environment, where he was expected to compete for the starting center position and provide veteran experience to the offensive line.
Playing Style and Strengths
James is known as a technician at the center position, with strong awareness and communication skills that help organize the offensive line protections. His experience and football intelligence allow him to make pre-snap reads and adjustments to handle complex defensive fronts. He brings durability and consistency to whatever lineup he joins, having started significant games throughout his career.
Notable Career Milestones
Throughout his professional career, James has demonstrated resilience and dedication. His ability to continue playing through personal adversity during his college years set the tone for his professional journey. The successive contract extensions he earned from the Raiders reflected his steady improvement and reliability as an NFL starter.
Andre James Career Statistics
James has appeared in 106 games throughout his NFL career, with 61 of those games as starts. His durability and consistent playing time have been hallmarks of his professional career since taking over the starting center role for the Raiders in 2021.
NFL Career Highlights
As an undrafted free agent who developed into a reliable NFL starter, James represents a success story of persistence and development. His journey from a late-round afterthought to a multi-year starter demonstrates his work ethic and adaptability to the professional game. The fact that he has continued to earn significant contracts reflects the value teams place on consistent, available offensive linemen.
Other Career Notes
Beyond his regular-season contributions, James has been a steady presence in the NFL, playing meaningful games at one of the most demanding positions on the offensive line. His experience starting every game over multiple seasons with the Raiders provided him with the foundation to contribute immediately with his new team.
Andre James Family
Family Background
James grew up in a family that would later face significant challenges. During his college career at UCLA, James demonstrated the strength of his character when he chose to play in a game against Arizona just days after the passing of his father from cancer. This difficult decision highlighted both his love for the game and his commitment to his teammates.
Personal Life
James maintains a presence on social media under the handle @andrejames77 on Instagram. While he keeps much of his personal life private, his professional journey and career trajectory speak to his dedication and focus on football.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a transition year for James as he joins the Los Angeles Chargers organization. After six seasons with the Raiders organization, including five as their primary starting center, James brings a wealth of experience to his new team. His signing provided the Chargers with an experienced option at center who has proven he can handle the rigors of a full NFL season.
James joined a Chargers team looking to establish consistency along their offensive line. His familiarity with the division after years facing AFC West opponents gives him valuable insight into the challenges ahead. The transition to a new team and new offensive system requires adjustment, but his track record suggests he has the adaptability to contribute quickly.
The partnership between James and the Chargers coaching staff will be important in determining his role and impact for the 2025 season. His leadership qualities and communication skills at the line of scrimmage should help stabilize the interior of the offensive line. As the season progresses, his performance will be key in establishing his standing within the team structure and contributing to the Chargers offensive goals.