From his native Monroe, Louisiana, to his current residence of Dallas, Texas, Bradie Gene James has always been a leader, unafraid to tackle any challenge or obstacle whether on the football field — or the boardroom.

James’ journey to stardom began back in West Monroe where he was an All-State linebacker for the West Monroe Rebels, leading them to the 1999 Class 5A state championship.

After graduating, James headed a few miles south to Baton Rouge to the picturesque campus of Louisiana State University. He quickly made his mark there as a member of the football team and as a high-achieving student. While playing for the Tigers, James was a two-time All-SEC selection and left LSU as the school’s second-leading tackler. He was also named an All-American his senior season, after making the switch from weakside lineback to middle linebacker.

But James, as he is to this day, wasn’t just satisfied to be a hard-charging jock. He excelled in the classroom as well. He was chosen as a National Scholar Athlete by the National Football Foundation and was on the All-SEC Academic Honor roll. He graduated from LSU in 2003 with a degree in criminology.

In 2003, the Dallas Cowboys made James their 4th pick of the draft. He came to Dallas as a backup linebacker, but excelled on special teams where he finished his rookie season fourth in special teams tackles with 16.

After becoming a free agent in 2012, James signed with the Houston Texans.

By 2005, he was the team’s starting middle linebacker and in 2007, he was named defensive captain. He has continued to shine and has quickly become one of the Cowboys undisputed team leaders.

Much of that leadership is because the eloquent James is as active off the field as he is on it. Always the humanitarian, he has actively participates in charity events and is always ready to offer his assistance — and his informed opinion — in a variety of areas.

But as much as James has accomplished, he hasn’t forgotten his humble roots. He has personally invested an endless amount of effort educating others about the importance of effectively utilizing services and resources to maintain a quality life.

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