James Daniels

James Daniels's Biography

Born on September 13, 1997, James Daniels is known for his robust and dynamic presence on the football field. The professional American football guard currently plays for the National Football League’s (NFL) Pittsburgh Steelers. Prior to this, he played college football at Iowa, demonstrating a promising talent that later on carried him to a promising career in the NFL.

During his early life, Daniels hailed from Warren, Ohio where he attended Harding High School. His athletic prowess was already evident, starting for the varsity football team for three consecutive years. However, football wasn’t his sole interest in sports. He also partook in track, displaying a well-rounded athleticism that went beyond the football field.

In July 2014, he made a solid commitment to football when he committed to play for the Iowa Hawkeyes. This decision saw Daniels choose Iowa over illustrious schools such as Alabama, Auburn, and Ohio State.

During the years 2015 to 2017, Daniels played as a center for the Iowa Hawkeyes. His talent shone as he impressively played in 37 games over three years. Following his junior season in 2017, he made the major decision to forgo his senior year to enter the 2018 NFL draft, marking a significant milestone in his career.

His professional journey kicked off when he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round, 39th overall, of the 2018 NFL Draft. Eric Kush started the 2018 season at left guard, but Daniels was slowly integrated into the role, splitting time with Kush as the season progressed. When Kush suffered a neck injury on October 28, Daniels stepped up and became the starter against the New York Jets.

In his rookie year, he started ten games, mostly at left guard but also one at right guard. As the 2019 season approached, the team decided to move Daniels to the center position, with then-incumbent center Cody Whitehair shifting to left guard. However, with the Bears’ offense stumbling and after right guard Kyle Long was placed on injured reserve, Daniels resumed his role as the left guard.

Unfortunately, Daniels’ promising trajectory hit a roadblock in the fifth game of the 2020 season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He suffered a severe pectoral muscle tear, which took him out for the remainder of the season. He was consequently placed on injured reserve on October 14.

Despite this, Daniels continued to make strides in his career. On March 17, 2022, he signed a handsome three-year, $26.5 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Daniels also made history as he was the first player to wear a Guardian Cap in any organized professional game; this took place during a preseason game against the Houston Texans on August 9, 2024.

However, another setback occurred during the 2024 season when Daniels suffered a torn Achilles in Week 4. He was again placed on season-ending injured reserve on October 1, 2024.

Beyond his individual achievements, Daniels also relishes a strong family connection to football. His older brother, LeShun Daniels, is a running back. They shared some treasured memories playing together during their time at Iowa. LeShun Daniels later got signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2017, further accentuating the football legacy within the family.

James Daniels’ football journey is marked by notable successes, challenges, and resilience. From his early years in Ohio to the professional fields of the NFL, Daniels has consistently stood out, making significant contributions and continuing to shape his ever-evolving career. Through every hardship, setback, and victory, he has remained a shining figure within the world of American football. His ongoing journey continues to inspire many, both on and off the field.