James Harden: The Undrafted Football Player Pursuing His Goals

By Jason Bolton December 08, 2023 10:14

In the world of professional football, success is often determined by draft status and college accolades. But every now and then, there's a player who defies the odds and captures the attention of fans and coaches alike. Meet James Harden, a determined and relentless football player from Dallas, Texas, who is on a mission to make his mark in the NFL. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Harden's unwavering belief in himself and his unique marketing strategies have garnered attention from players, fans, and even high-profile celebrities. In this article, we will delve into Harden's journey, his unorthodox approach to self-promotion, and the incredible resilience that drives him forward.

A Dream in the Making

Growing up in Dallas, James Harden's passion for football was ignited at a young age. He was captivated by the Dallas Cowboys and dreamed of one day donning the iconic star on his helmet. However, his path to the NFL was far from conventional. Harden faced adversity throughout his high school and college years, battling injuries that limited his playing time and hindered his chances of being recruited by top-tier programs.

The Unconventional Marketing Approach

Undeterred by his setbacks, Harden took matters into his own hands and devised a unique marketing strategy to catch the attention of NFL coaches and scouts. Armed with video evidence of his talent and a science board, he leveraged social media to showcase his abilities. Harden's dedication to self-promotion was evident as he attended every open practice during training camp, displaying his skills to anyone who would watch.

"I just want an opportunity, really," said Harden. "I'm not asking for any money, I got my own cleats, helmet, and shoulder pads."

A Journey of Persistence

Harden's journey to catch the eye of the Dallas Cowboys, his hometown team, has been a rollercoaster of emotions. He made his presence known by standing outside the Cowboys' training facility with a sign displaying his phone number, stats, and even a bible verse. Despite facing initial skepticism and even laughter from team owner Jerry Jones, Harden remained determined to prove his worth.

Undeterred by Jones' response, Harden embarked on a journey to various NFL stadiums across the country. From the New Orleans Saints to the New England Patriots, he left no stone unturned in his pursuit of an opportunity. Along the way, he encountered NFL players who recognized his potential and offered support, including training sessions with the likes of Dez Bryant, Laquon Treadwell, Lance Lenoir, and Rashard Robinson.

The Fan Controlled Football League

While waiting for his shot at the NFL, Harden found opportunities to showcase his skills in various semi-professional leagues. He played for teams such as the Texas Power, North Texas Savages, Texas Revolution, Cedar Rapids River Kings, and most recently, the Zappers in the Fan Controlled Football League (FCF).Harden almost managed to secure a roster spot with Wild Aces of the FCFL in their inaugural year and played his 2nd season with the Zappers both of which where he won a championship. Harden's versatility allowed him to play multiple positions on the field, further demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the game.

Impressive Speed: Harden's remarkable speed was on display as he recorded a speed of 21.04 mph while running 10 yards, further solidifying his athleticism and potential on the football field.

Support from Athletes and Role Models

Harden's relentless pursuit of his NFL dream has not gone unnoticed. Despite not yet having the opportunity to showcase his skills on a large scale, he has garnered a significant following on social media. With over 20 thousand followers on Instagram, Harden has become an influencer and role model for aspiring athletes. His story has resonated with many, and he has received support from notable figures such as rapper Drake and artist 21 Savage.

Racing Terrell Owens on ESPN: On August 24th, 2022, James Harden had the opportunity to race former NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens on ESPN. This event further showcased his speed and athleticism to a wider audience.
Drake's Recognition: Rapper Drake took notice of James Harden's story and expressed his support, further amplifying his visibility and inspiring others.
21 Savage's Instagram Post: Artist 21 Savage shared James Harden's story on his Instagram, shedding light on his journey and further solidifying his status as an influencer and role model.

The Need for an Opportunity

As Harden continues to chase his NFL dreams, he remains resolute in his belief that he has yet to reach his full potential. His positive energy, work ethic, and passion for the game are evident to those who have encountered him. Harden possesses exceptional speed, which has allowed him to excel on the field and even compete against NFL defensive backs. He is willing to play any position, showcasing his versatility and commitment to contributing wherever he is needed.

XFL Workouts: Harden attended 5-6 XFL workouts, demonstrating his commitment to exploring different avenues and leagues to showcase his skills.

The Next Chapter

James Harden's journey as an undrafted football player pursuing his dreams is far from over. While he continues to train, strategize, and market himself, the NFL and CFL remains the ultimate goal. With every passing day, Harden's determination and resilience grow stronger. His story serves as an inspiration to all those who face obstacles in their pursuit of greatness. As the football world eagerly awaits his opportunity, one thing is certain – James Harden will stop at nothing to achieve his Pro Football dreams.