Tyshaun James Signs With Atlanta Falcons as Undrafted Free Agent
Central Connecticut wideout Tyshaun James signed a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday following the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft. James, who set the school-record for receiving touchdowns, was a two-time First Team All-Northeast Conference pick for the Blue Devils.
"This is a great day for Tyshaun, his family and also for our program," said CCSU head coach Ryan McCarthy. "Tyshaun has worked hard for this day and is dedicated to improving his craft. He has made the most of his talent and with his work ethic we look forward to following his career. For our program it shows everyone that if you have the dedication to the game, people will take notice and doors will open for you to continue your career."
In addition to finishing his career as CCSU's all-time leader with 18 career receiving touchdowns, James earned Division I All-New England honors as a senior. The 6-foot-3 wideout capped the 2021 campaign with 45 catches for 674 yards and five touchdowns, while added 67 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. He also ranked among the NEC leaders in receptions per game (4.09, 4th), receiving yards per game (59.0, 5th) and all-purpose yards per game (65.09, 7th). James had a league-high 169 yards on seven catches with a touchdown on Nov. 13 at Duquesne.
As a junior in 2019 James helped the Blue Devils win a league title and enjoyed a breakout campaign. He ranked 23rd nationally with 14 total touchdowns and was 12th in the NCAA with 20.38 yards per reception and totaled 978 receiving yards. The Middletown, CT, native finished his career with 1,881 yards on 114 catches - the second-highest total in school history. He also had 294 rushing yards and six scores.
James joins former teammate Jake Dolegala as the second Blue Devil to sign as an undrafted free agent with an NFL organization in the past four years. Dolegala signed with the Cincinnati Bengals following the 2019 draft and would go on to make the 53-man roster. Dolegala is currently a member of the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League.
