Timing is everything and Jesse James' timing could not have been better as he continues his first year as a Nittany Lion. A true freshman, James enrolled in classes at Penn State in January and already has made significant progress, having participated in winter conditioning, spring practice and summer workouts. James has quickly demonstrated he has the skill, desire and physical attributes to become an early contributor at the tight end position in Penn State's new offense. In the 2012 Blue-White game, he made two receptions for 24 yards. James brings a good combination of size, skills and speed to the field. The former South Allegheny High School all-state honoree joins the lengthy and successful line of Penn State football student-athletes from Western Pennsylvania, which includes 16 returnees on the 2012 squad.
High School
James was a second-team PA Football News all-state honoree for Coach Pat Monroe at South Allegheny High School. MaxPreps rated James the nation's No. 3 tight end and he was selected to play in the 2012 U.S. Semper Fidelis All-American game. He also was named to the 2011 Post-Gazette Fabulous 22. James caught 34 passes for 463 yards and was named a second-team all-state tight end as a junior.
Personal
Full name is Jesse D. James. He is the son of Rick and Susan James. He has four brothers, William, Rick and Brady and Keith Yavioch, and two sisters, Carly and Isabella. He enjoys playing golf. James is enrolled in the College of Health and Human Development. Born June 4, 1994 in McKeesport, Pa.
