A Few Seasons Ago James Carpenter Wouldn't Have Believed His Journey to IU

Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

Indiana defensive lineman James Carpenter has earned his way everywhere he has been. A lightly recruited defensive tackle out of Roanoke Catholic in Virginia, Carpenter walked on to then FCS squad James Madison in 2019 and played in just one game on special teams. After five seasons with the Dukes Carpenter arrives in the Big Ten with Indiana as two-time All-Sun Belt performer with 28 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks to his name. Still, to him, his journey is unbelievable.

“If you were to tell me that I'd be standing here five or six years ago. I would’ve told you you’re crazy. It's been an awesome journey so far. Something I'll also remember and always take pride in being a walk-on.” Carpenter said on Thursday after a fall camp practice.

The sixth-year senior entered the transfer portal in December after helping JMU to an 11-1 record. He committed to the Hoosiers on Christmas Eve, reuniting with Curt Cignetti, Bryant Haines and Pat Kuntz in Bloomington for one last ride.

“You got one season left, one more ride with me. So, I'm going to make the most of it and just enjoy the time I have with these guys.” Carpenter said.

The familiarity with the coaching staff and several of other players has eased his transition into the Big Ten and Indiana.

“It was a pretty easy transition. I’ve been with coach Cignetti for the past five years going on to six. So, you know [I’m] very comfortable with him. We have a lot of guys with motors.” Carpenter explained. “So, you know for the most part, the transition was pretty easy. The system for us is basically the same so it was nothing too difficult, we’re just in an area that's far away from home but other than that it's been a good transition.”

Carpenter did not participate in spring practice as he was recovering from shoulder surgery. He said he is 100-percent healthy and ready for the season.

For one final season, James Carpenter has a chance to prove he belongs in the Big Ten. He has proven he belongs every year prior and he’s ready to put on the cream and crimson for IU.

The Hoosiers open the 2024 season against the FIU Golden Panthers on August 31st.