James Proche II

James Proche II's Biography

James Proche II is an incredibly talented American professional football player born on September 21, 1996, known for his skills as a wide receiver and punt returner. Over the years, his impressive abilities on the field have allowed him to play for reputable NFL teams, currently serving his craft with the Cleveland Browns team.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Proche started developing his football career early on. He first attended Dallas’ Red Oak before shifting his academic journey to DeSoto High School in his senior year because of the academic issues arising with Prime Prep. Despite changing schools, Proche swiftly adapted to his new surroundings. Even though his time on DeSoto’s Eagles was marked by a challenging health setback – a kidney failure during summer training camp – he managed to compete in seven matches, catching 18 passes for 335 yards and earning his first touchdown.

Choosing the next step of his career proved to be a tough decision for the football prodigy. He had multiple offers on the table from various esteemed colleges like Colorado State, Louisville, Maryland, TCU, and Wake Forest, among others. Ultimately, he committed to play college football at SMU, a choice that would determine his future in professional football.

As a redshirt freshman, Proche was put on hold, allowing him time to study the game under experienced professionals before making his debut. He burst into prominence the following year, making 57 receptions for 709 yards and six touchdown catches, becoming the team’s second-best in terms of metrics. As a redshirt sophomore, he caught 40 passes for 816 yards and six touchdowns. His average of 20.4 yards per catch ranked him as the 13th best in the nation.

Proche’s hard work paid off as he was named first-team All-American Athletic Conference (AAC) during his redshirt junior year. His numbers were impressive, leading the team with 93 receptions for 1,199 yards, and 12 touchdowns. His final season was no less brilliant. Catching 112 passes, he led the nation in receptions for 1,225 yard and 15 touchdowns, leading to him being named first-team All-AAC once again.

Turning pro was the inevitable next step for the star player, and indeed, it came at the 2020 NFL Combine. Proche ranked fourth overall in the bench press and 14th in the 20-yard shuttle. He was subsequently chosen in the sixth round by the Baltimore Ravens at the 2020 NFL draft.

September 13, 2020, marked Proche’s NFL debut as he returned two punts for 26 yards in a match against the Cleveland Browns. His first catch of the season, earned during a match against the Tennessee Titans, was a testament to his abilities as the pass gained 14 yards. However, the season didn’t go as smoothly as planned. Proche was briefly placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list in December but was termed active a few days later. Nevertheless, he managed to conclude the season on a high note by being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

In 2021, Proche delivered a consistent performance, with 16 receptions for 202 yards in 14 matches, appearing in 15 matches in the subsequent season. 2023 came as a year marked by changes for Proche. He changed his jersey number from #3 to #10, making way for Odell Beckham Jr., the new addition to the Ravens team who took over his previous jersey number.

Unfortunately, the Ravens waived Proche at the end of the 2023 preseason. But Proche bounced back by signing with the Browns practice squad that year on October 31. A week later, he was signed to the active roster and re-signed with the Browns a few months later in March 2024. His career with the Browns has been somewhat tumultuous, having been released and signed back to the practice squad in August. By mid-September, however, Proche was back on the active roster.

Off the field, Proche goes by the nickname “Channel 3”, following his affection towards the number three. In an interview with SMU, he mentioned his ambition to be the best on the field, reflecting his nickname. In a tragic event in May 2023, Proche lost his beloved mother, Tasha Le’Shel Seastrong.

The indomitable spirit of James Proche, reflected both on and off the field, continues to inspire countless individuals to never give up, no matter the adversities they face.