The New York Giants continue to fine-tune their roster after assembling their initial 53-man squad and practice team, and a new addition could be on the horizon. Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback D.J. James, who was waived by Seattle, is scheduled to visit with the Giants to discuss potentially joining their practice squad, per ESPN’s Brady Henderson.
Giants Target D.J. James
Henderson shared via X on August 28 that although James could still return to Seattle’s practice squad at a later date, several teams, including the Giants, have expressed interest. The rookie cornerback is heading to New York for talks about potentially filling one of the Giants’ final practice squad slots.
The Giants have two practice squad spots available after signing 16 players on Wednesday. Thanks to an international exemption, Irish kicker Jude McAtamney does not count against the team’s limit. Meanwhile, waived safety Gervarrius Owens is also a strong candidate for one of the remaining slots.
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Seattle’s Decision to Move On
James, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was waived by the Seahawks on August 27 and is the only player from Seattle’s 2024 draft class who did not make the roster or practice squad. The Seahawks are expected to use their remaining practice squad spots on 2022 fifth-round pick Tyreke Smith and a third quarterback, leaving James to explore new opportunities.
If James signs elsewhere, he would become the highest Seahawks rookie to miss Week 1 since defensive end Obam Gwacham in 2015.
D.J. James’ College and Draft Journey
James began his collegiate career at Oregon, where he started 11 games in 2021, recording 46 tackles, two interceptions, and four passes defensed. He transferred to Auburn for his final two seasons, making an impact with 75 tackles and three interceptions in 22 starts.
Selected by the Seahawks with the 192nd pick in the sixth round, James was viewed as a versatile cornerback capable of playing both nickel and outside cornerback, while also contributing on special teams. Though his time in Seattle was short-lived, he remains a promising prospect as he looks for a new NFL home.
Giants’ Need for Depth
As the Giants prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8, adding James would bolster their defensive depth. The team is still finalizing key decisions as they enter the regular season, and James could bring versatility and competition to their secondary.
The coming days will determine whether James joins Big Blue or returns to the Pacific Northwest with Seattle. Either way, the rookie cornerback’s journey continues as he seeks to carve out his place in the NFL.
