DENVER – Former Tennessee and current Denver Broncos offensive lineman Ja’Wuan James has opted out of the 2020 NFL season.
James released a statement on his Twitter account formally announcing the decision on Monday.
take care of you & yours pic.twitter.com/tgA5LwkrcM
— Ja'Wuan James (@JawuanJames70) August 3, 2020
“After continuous conversation with my family over the past couple weeks about the NFL figuring out the plan for the 2020 season, I’ve decided to opt out,” James said. “It is tough, but the right decision. There’s just too much unknown about this virus and about plans handling it going forward. My wife & I were blessed with out newborn son on May 22 & he’s now my top priority.”
James played limited snaps last season due to injury after signing a four-year, $51 million contract, but figured to play a major role in the Broncos’ right tackle rotation this season. James’ contract will be put on pause when he is not with the team.
James was recruited by Lane Kiffin. He played under Derek Dooley and Butch Jones at Tennessee from 2010-13.
The former Vol is married to former Tennessee softball pitcher Rainey Gaffin. James was drafted with the No. 19 pick at the 2014 NFL draft to the Miami Dolphins.