Jan. 11, 2026, 12:40 p.m. CT
The Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker position was one of the highest priorities last offseason. Dallas used free agency, the trade market and the draft to help round out one of their most problematic units on defense. On paper, they thought they did a solid enough of a job that their fifth-round rookie, Shemar James, wouldn’t get thrown to the wolves right away. In reality, things were as bad as ever at LB and the rookie ended up playing a significant role in the rotation.
James received mixed reviews as a draft prospect. He was seen as a solid downhill LB but questionable in coverage and in matters of lateral pursuit. Based on consensus boards, Dallas reached when they drafted James 152 overall. But the fact they traded up to secure the Florida product implies they saw something others didn’t and they might have a plan that scouts may not be considering.
Overall, James had a basic rookie season. By no means was it stellar, but considering he was selected well into Day 3 and played on one of the most dysfunctional defenses in recent years, his performance was admirable.
Depending on who comes in to take over the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator role, James should figure into the LB rotation in 2026. He has the skillset to be an NFL LB, and he has valuable experience under his belt.
He finished the season having played 14 games and starting six. He played 544 snaps on defense and with 181 special teams snaps played a vital role on Dallas’ gameday roster. He blitzed 29 times as a rookie, taking full advantage of his downhill ability, and logged 1.5 sacks and seven pressures for his efforts.
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In his draft class his rookie grades rank him eighth among the nine qualifying LBs. Putting his 542 snaps against all NFL LBs ranks James 82 of 87 in 2025. On the plus side, he wasn’t the worst LB in Dallas, that distinction belongs to Kenneth Murray who graded as the 85th overall.
James’ 2025 rookie grade: D
Other rookie grades
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