Edgerrin James, a prominent former NFL running back, enjoyed an 11-season career, showcasing his talent with the Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals, and Seattle Seahawks. Drafted fourth overall in 1999 by the Colts after a successful college career at the University of Miami, James quickly established himself as a key player. His powerful running style and impressive yardage gained cemented his status as a top running back in the league. Though he never won a Super Bowl, his consistent performance and contributions to his teams earned him widespread recognition and respect throughout his career.
August 1, 1978: Birth of Edgerrin Tyree James
Edgerrin Tyree James was born on August 1, 1978. He would later become a prominent running back in the National Football League (NFL), playing for 11 seasons.
1999: AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
In 1999, Edgerrin James was named the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He also earned four Pro Bowl and four All-Pro selections during his career.
1999: Drafted by Indianapolis Colts
In 1999, Edgerrin James was selected fourth overall in the NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts. This marked the beginning of his professional football career.
2001: Injury: Tearing of ACL
Six games into the 2001 season, Edgerrin James suffered a significant setback by tearing his ACL, impacting his career trajectory.
March 2006: Departure from Indianapolis Colts
In March 2006, Edgerrin James left the Indianapolis Colts as their all-time leading rusher with 9,226 yards. Despite his departure, the Colts went on to win Super Bowl XLI in the following season, and Colts owner Jim Irsay sent him a Super Bowl ring.
March 23, 2006: Signing with Arizona Cardinals
On March 23, 2006, Edgerrin James signed a four-year, $30 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He became the active leader in career rushing yards at the start of 2007.
2008: Contributions in Playoffs
In the 2008 NFL playoffs, Edgerrin James made significant contributions, including rushing for 73 yards in the NFC Championship to help the Cardinals reach Super Bowl XLIII.
April 14, 2009: Passing of Long-Time Girlfriend
On April 14, 2009, Edgerrin James's long-time girlfriend, Andia Wilson, passed away due to leukemia, deeply affecting him and their family.
April 2009: Personal Loss and Team Release Request
In April 2009, Edgerrin James faced the personal tragedy of losing his long-time girlfriend to cancer. Following this, he requested his release from the Arizona Cardinals, which was honored on April 28.
April 23, 2009: Induction into University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame
On April 23, 2009, Edgerrin James was inducted into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame, highlighting his exceptional college football career with the Miami Hurricanes.
August 24, 2009: Signing with Seattle Seahawks
On August 24, 2009, Edgerrin James signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks. However, his performance was limited, and he was cut from the team on November 3, 2009.
November 3, 2009: Released from Seattle Seahawks
On November 3, 2009, Edgerrin James was released by the Seattle Seahawks after a brief stint where he rushed for only 125 yards over seven games.
November 2009: End of Active Career Leader in Rushing Yards
In November 2009, Edgerrin James was surpassed by LaDainian Tomlinson as the active leader in career rushing yards, concluding his reign as the leader.
July 26, 2011: Retirement Announcement
On July 26, 2011, Edgerrin James announced his retirement from professional football. By then, he had accumulated 12,246 rushing yards and 80 rushing touchdowns.
September 23, 2012: Induction into Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
On September 23, 2012, Edgerrin James was inducted into the Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor during a week 3 game, acknowledging his significant impact on the team's history.
2020: Induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame
In 2020, Edgerrin James was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2020, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport.
2023: Children's Achievements
In 2023, Edgerrin James's children achieved significant milestones: Eden committed to Howard as a running back, and Edgerrin Jr. committed to the University of Cincinnati as a four-star basketball recruit.