NFL legend Edgerrin James seeks support for son Jizzle amid unspecified substance abuse battle
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Pro Football Hall of Famer Edgerrin James turned to social media in a public plea for his son, former Charlotte basketball player Jizzle James. The former Indianapolis Colts standout running back said his son is facing a substance abuse issue.
James did not share further details about the issue. He did, however, ask anyone who sees his 21-year-old son to offer him a hug while urging them not to give him anything of value.
“Jizzle is dealing with substance abuse and is NOT in the right state of mind right now,” James wrote Tuesday in an Instagram Story post. “If you see him, show him LOVE-but DO NOT give him money, valuables, or anything material.”
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Cincinnati’s Jizzle James (2) handles the ball during the first half of a college basketball game against Texas Tech at United Supermarkets Arena on Feb. 24, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas. (John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
James emphasized that his son’s needs are being met and urged those around him to offer encouragement and love. “You’re not helping him by feeding the problem. He wants/needs for NOTHING. Give him a hug. Give him encouragement. Give him love. THAT’S IT. Be patient with him. We’re fighting for him, not against him.”
James’ stint as a college basketball player at Charlotte was brief. After spending three seasons with Cincinnati, he transferred to the 49ers earlier this offseason to follow Wes Miller, who left the Bearcats to become Charlotte’s head coach.
According to Charlotte’s sports information department, James is no longer with the program. A spokesperson cited personal issues.
James’ exit from Charlotte followed a turbulent final season with Cincinnati. The Bearcats dismissed him from the program last summer but reinstated him midway through the season. He appeared in 23 games, averaging 10.9 points and 2.1 assists per game.
James averaged 10.8 points per game during his Cincinnati career. He later hinted at a possible reunion with Cincinnati in a social media post, but the school appeared to respond by sending him a cease-and-desist letter.
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Cincinnati’s Jizzle James (2) looks on during the first round of the Crown College Basketball Championship against DePaul at MGM Garden Arena on April 1, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
“As you are no longer a member of the University of Cincinnati men’s basketball program, you are no longer authorized to use, represent, or commercially promote the University of Cincinnati basketball program, including the use of the University’s name, logos, uniforms, jerseys, or other team-related likenesses,” the letter obtained by SI.com read.
“Any sale, advertisement, or distribution of University of Cincinnati basketball jerseys or merchandise representing you as a current player is strictly prohibited.”
Cincinnati’s Jizzle James (2) dunks during the second half of a college basketball game against Kansas State at Bramlage Coliseum on Feb. 11, 2026, in Manhattan, Kansas. (Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images)
“I have my own merch I made. I don’t need y’all jerseys,” James said in a response posted to Instagram.
