James Starks

James Darell Starks (born February 25, 1986) is an American football running back for the Green Bay Packers. He was drafted by the Packers in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York.

High school career

James attended high school in Niagara Falls, New York, where he played football and ran track. In football, he ran for 1,048 yards and threw for over 600 yards for the Wolverines of Niagara Falls High School while earning All-Western New York honors in his senior season. He served as a captain for three years. In track & field, Starks was one of the states top performers in the long jump (PR of 7.00 meters), and also recorded a 11.14 100-meter dash time.

Considered only a two-star recruit by Rivals.com, Starks' only scholarship offer came from Buffalo, which he accepted.

College career

Starks enjoyed a standout career at Buffalo. He set a career rushing record with 3,140 yards, and scored 40 total touchdowns. He registered back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons as a sophomore and junior. He was one of the elite backs in the MAC and the nation and became the first 1,000-yard rusher in the Bulls’ Division I-A era. He also became the first UB freshman to earn All-MAC honors in 2006. He was named to the All-Mac Second Team as a freshman and sophomore, and was named to the All-Mac First Team as a junior. Starks did not play in his senior season due to a shoulder injury. He is also a member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.