Navy football picked up another stellar commit on Thursday when McEachern high school linebacker Myles James announced he would be a Midshipman.
Myles James is a powerful linebacker who loves to make opponents feel it. Simply put, he can lay the wood on during a tackle. When you are 6-foot, 230 pounds and can bench 330 pounds, that comes naturally. Just ask South Cobb’s football team. Last year during a game Cobb was backed up on their own 1-yard-line on offense. Campbell high school (James played there last year) was struggling on offense and had turned the ball over deep in their opponent’s territory. Campbell needed a spark and James provided it when he blew up a play in the backfield forcing a fumble which Campbell recovered. A few plays later it was touchdown Campbell!
Despite making 104 tackles including 15 for losses, forcing two fumbles, earning All-County and All-Region honors, playing in the Georgia Dome in the TRAJF all-star game (He was team captain), being the defensive MVP for his team, and earning a 3.6 GPA, Navy was the first and only program to offer James. Teams like Texas-San Antonio, Kennesaw State, Elon, Southern Illinois, West Georgia, Georgia Tech, Norfolk State, Tennessee State, Tennessee Tech and Army West Point were interested but unwilling to take a chance on James.
That made Navy an easy choice for James.
“They were the first to believe in me so I was quick to believe in them,” said James. “Graduating from the academy guarantees you a great future and amazing opportunities. It’s a great place.”
James said that not only did the Navy staff want him but every member of the Mid staff sent him handwritten letters attesting to that fact. On Thursday when James made the decision to commit he was at home and called Navy. His call created some excitement at the Navy football office.
“They seemed really excited it was over the phone,” recalled James. “I couldn’t see their faces but I could tell they were happy about it; one coach even went on to say I made his day.”
What kind of player is Navy getting in James? James, who will likely play Mike linebacker at Navy, spoke about what makes him a great player.
“My knowledge and physicality, said James. “I study the game 24/7 whether it be my game film or watching a college game. I’m always critiquing myself and taking mental notes combined with the fact that I seek out contact and want everyone I hit to feel it.”
James also wrestles in the 220 weight class. That probably gives him an advantage when making tackles.
James will take his official visit to Navy on September 10. That should seal the deal even more.