James grew up in South Jordan, Utah, and attended Herriman High School, where he was a member of the football and track and field teams.

[1] He was rated a four-star recruit and committed to play college football at UCLA over offers from Oregon, USC, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Utah.

[5] James declared for the NFL Draft on December 18, 2018, forgoing his final season of NCAA eligibility.

[8] He made his first career start at center in Week 9 in place of the injured Rodney Hudson.

[9] On March 22, 2021, the Raiders signed James to a three-year, $12.5 million contract extension through the 2023 season.