WASHINGTON, DC (DC News Now)–Eden James gets ready for Saturday’s battle with Hampton University in the annual “Battle for the Real HU” at Audi Field.
The running back wants to end Howard University’s seven-game losing streak.
“It’s been one heck of an experience and one that, you know, I wouldn’t I wouldn’t change truly grateful for this, to be able to be at this university,” said James.
Running the ball is something that runs in his family, as James is the son of NFL Hall of Famer Edgerin James. He even wears the same number his dad did at the University of Miami.
James has rushed for 50 yards during Howard’s first three games of the season. Plus, he’s caught another 88 yards coming out of the backfield, which is more than half of his career high set just a year ago.
“I came from a school where all we did was just run the ball,” James said. “So I believe there was a lot of questions on whether I could run around and catch the ball. So I believe I’ve improved in that aspect.”
Yet, it’s his off the field performance that impresses James’ head coach.
“He’s just one of the best well-rounded, guys, that you look at he’s the same guy every day,” Larry Scott. “That’s a high living of the standard level, the standard and competitive. And, and just overall, a really good person they play.”
James welcomes the role as a team leader.
“There’s always something going on here, and so with that, you know, if you want something done around here, you gotta do something,” James said. “But you can just complain and and just wait for somebody else to do it because it’s not going to get done.”
Being the son of a hall of famer could bring extra pressure. Not with James, as his father offered simple advice.
“Make the most of what you have in the moment right now,” said James.
That means carrying on the family tradition by playing his own game.
