One of the more intriguing prospects in the upcoming NFL draft is former Penn State standout and South Allegheny alum Jesse James. The 6’7, 255-pound tight end has a rare combination of skills that could translate to NFL stardom. As a junior this past season, James caught 38 passes for 396 yards and added three touchdowns despite playing in a pass offense that struggled for consistency.
After declaring for the draft in January, James has a chance to be one of the steals of the draft, and will head to the NFL combine this upcoming week in Indianapolis looking to dazzle scouts who are eager to see his unique combination of size, speed and power.
For James, the combine will not only be an opportunity to move himself up the draft board, it’s also going to be an opportunity to do good for others.
That’s because James plans on using the combine as a platform not only increase awareness for one of the deadliest forms of cancer, but more importantly, raise money to find a cure. James, who was a member of the organization Uplifting Athletes during his time in State College, will be taking donations that will be used to provide funding in the fight against Kidney Cancer.
James will specifically use his bench press test to raise money for cause, and will attempt to press 225 pounds as many times as possible. Fans can do their part by pledging a dollar amount for every rep James is able to do. Considering James has a personal best of 27 reps already in his career, a lot of money could be raised for a terrific cause.
In a recent interview with statecollege.com, James explained the reasoning behind his selfless gesture.
“Uplifting Athletes helped me a lot, it helped me build a foundation and put things into a difference perspective,” James said. “This will help the guys at Penn State reach their fundraising goals this year. So even though I’m not there anymore, I want to continue helping in whatever way I can.”
Considering what is on the line at next week’s combine in Indianapolis, the fact that James would think to do something so generous speaks volumes about the type of character the Glassport, Pa. native has. Projected to go somewhere in the third or fourth round heading into the combine, a solid performance could go far in solidifying James as an early round pick that might be ranked only behind Minnesota standout and projected first rounder, Maxx Williams.
The combine begins February 19 and if you are interested in donating to James worthy cause, feel free to visit and donate on James’ Pldgit.com page.
