After Flirting with the Transfer Portal IU RB Sampson James is 'All In' and 'Feels Great'

Sampson James hits the hole Image: Indiana University Athletics

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

Way back at the end of February the Hoosiers received a scare as backup running back and former four-star recruit Sampson James entered the NCAA Transfer Portal. This was on the heels of the Hoosiers losing their strength staff, led by David Ballou and Dr. Matt Rhea to Alabama. James’s trip to the portal lasted just a little while as the sophomore pulled his name back and was back on the field in cream and crimson in March as spring football started.

His return from the portal was celebrated. “We are really happy Sampson James stayed. I think that when you are close to people for a long time and something happens, sometimes they make an irrational decision. He wanted to be here, he is a great kid and he is all in” IU running backs coach Mike Hart said in a preseason Zoom conference as he alluded to James’s relationship with Ballou, who coached him at Avon High School as well as Indiana.

James’ trip to the portal was short lived and gets lost in the absolute craziness that has ensued since with the Coronavirus saga, but he’s happy to be back.

“It feels good” James said,. “it feels great actually because throughout that time, we weren't around our teammates for a long period, so the whole process feels good to just be back with the guys. Other guys are excited to just be around each other. I feel like we have great energy every day and that's what pushes us to become better. I'm definitely excited that's everybody's back, the rotation and everything we were doing before.”

James played in all 13 games, starting the Hoosiers final two contents, as a true freshman. He carried the ball 81 times for 275 yards and three touchdowns. That taste of playing time has provided James with the motivation he needed to get through a crazy off-season.

“Having an opportunity to start two games, I feel like the game speed is a lot slower” James said, “I'm starting to see stuff faster, quicker. I feel like I'm adjusting to the game, but it's definitely pushed me to work even harder so I can play more and eliminate any kind of weaknesses. Those two opportunities at the end of the season definitely pushed me and were on my mind this whole offseason.”

While James will miss the having Ballou around, he has taken to Indiana’s new strength and conditioning coach Aaron Wellman and his staff.

“I love Coach Wellman.” James said of the former New York Giant strength coach. “I love Coach Wellman and his staff. I feel great, my body feels great. I haven't had really any injuries. I'm loving everything they are doing in there. I think they are very knowledgeable; they always explain why we are doing something, which I feel helps a lot of my teammates. Great staff, no complaints at all. I love Coach Wellman, he's a great leader” James added.

James will start the season behind junior Stevie Scott who has put together back-to-back very good seasons in 2018 and ‘19.