Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Charles James II is gone:
Each and every year come late August, NFL teams are forced to make difficult roster choices towards the pursuit of 53. The Giants release of second-year cornerback Charles James II on Tuesday fell under the ‘heart-wrenching’ category. Energy… work ethic… and vocal leadership, all intangible qualities that his Giants teammates grew to adore. Unfortunately, pass coverage is not among his strengths and that shortcoming cost James his job. At least temporarily.
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Giants captain
Antrel Rolletook to Instagram to
with James’ release:
"In this league you witness many things. Something you agree with and some you don’t but no matter what you have to keep fighting and keep driving to be the player you can be and the best teammate you can be. BUT THIS ONE HURTS! Charles James has the heart of a lion and is exactly what any organization should have on their team. 8 interceptions in OTA and Training Camp I think speaks for itself. The best training camp amongst cornerbacks in my eyes but today he was released. Not to worry Lil Bra I promise you this is not the end of Charles James II. You are one hell of a player and that much more better of a teammate. I love you bra. Just keep your drive attitude and more than anything your personality. DONT NEVER LET ANYONE CHANGE WHO YOU ARE. God made you that way for a reason and your energy and personality has helped me way more than words can ever express. Blessing homie! I will see you on the opposite side of the ball."
Even as a green rookie, James was not oblivious to the value of his own presence on a veteran-laden defense:
"“A lot of older guys take to me as a little brother. We were just in the circle doing our thing like we normally do, and they like to see me dance. For you to come in as a rookie and have guys like that on your side is big.”"
As has become customary in the world of athletics, James took to social media following the devastating blow:
Wanna thank the New York Giants for giving me the opportunity to start my career in the National… http://t.co/cMuRsDBn5k
— Charles James II (@CJDeuce_) August 26, 2014
Can't lie just shed a tear thinking about @antrelrolle26 and @drc_two1 it was more than just football. Y'all were my brothers! #LoveYallBoys
— Charles James II (@CJDeuce_) August 27, 2014
Whether it be as a special teams body or depth cornerback, James is sure to catch on somewhere in the league before week 1 rosters are solidified. In the event that he somehow clears waivers, James could return to the Giants as a practice squad piece.
His charisma will be missed by Giants Nation as a collective community.