Andre James

Andre James

Center

Andre James is a twenty-five-year-old former UCLA Bruin. During his five years of college, Andre played as an offensive right tackle. He declared for the NFL Draft in 2018 and became an undrafted free agent. The Raiders signed him to a two-year contract worth more than 8 million dollars in 2019. In 2024, the night before being a free agent, Andre James signed a three-year, $24 million deal which was his 3rd Raiders contract in five years.

The Center of Attention

At 6’4″ and 300 pounds, he was a second-string offensive linesman. In 2021, with his renewed contract, Andre got a new challenge and a lot of excitement. After spending his college career as a tackle, Andre personally expected that he would always be a tackle for the Raiders. But to his surprise, he got to change positions from tackle to playing the center. 

More than the fact that Andre had never played center before, he had some big cleats to fill. With a three-day notice, Andre was chosen to step into the cleats of Rodney Hudson. Andre had some intense pressure while making his Raiders entry into the NFL. (In 2021, the Raiders traded All-Pro Center Rodney Hudson to the Arizona Cardinals) 

The change in such an important position was a big thing for both Andre and the team. Analysts predicted that he would “do well” playing center. He started off rough with a few penalties, but things certainly improved.

Dynamic Duo with Derek

While preparing to play center for the Raiders, Andre spent a lot of time with Derek Carr. The two developed chemistry while spending two seasons together in Oakland and then 2020 in Las Vegas. The team dubbed them “The Raiders’ Dynamic Duo.

Fans noted their friendship after learning that the two spend time together doing something other than practicing reps together. Their favorite thing to do? Eating grilled American Wagyu Tomahawk steaks and smoked 16-pound brisket. Aside from football, Andre says he loves to eat! Sounds good to us!

 

In The Center of Raider Nation

Did You Know?

From 75 to 77

Andre lost his father, Marcus James, to testicular cancer in October 2018 while in college. He remains close to his mother, Angela, and two younger siblings. Even with the sad loss, Andre mustered the strength to play football 5 days after his father’s passing. And with pride and honor for his late father, Andre brought home the victory against Arizona.

To further honor his father, Andre changed his jersey number. He was wearing jersey number 75 during his junior season. After his father’s death, Andre ended his college ball career with jersey number 77, his father’s birth year, 1977. He even has 77 in his Instagram username: @andrejames77.

Andre’s Raider Lady

Andre James changed his status in July 2022 from 8-year girlfriend to Fiance. Then in June of 2024 it became official. Congratulations to Mikaela Thomas and Andre James on your next step life! Their romantic engagement happened in Tulum, Mexico and the wedding in Westlake Village, CA.

Their special day wouldn’t have been complete without their beloved dogs, who are more than just pets—they’re family! The couple’s furry companions were dressed for the occasion, standing proudly by their side. With their loving and loyal nature, these adorable pups brought even more joy and warmth to their wedding celebration.

AJ and MJ wedding
Andre James Raiders Center

Baby James is on the way!

Andre James and Mikaela Thomas are excited to start a new chapter in their lives! After getting engaged in Tulum, Mexico, and officially tying the knot in June 2024 in Westlake Village, CA, they now have even more exciting news to share—Baby James is on the way! 🍼💙 Mikaela and Andre recently announced that they are expecting their first child, due in April 2025.

Their beloved dogs are just as thrilled to welcome a new member into their growing family. As they prepare for this exciting journey, Mikaela continues to inspire with her fitness lifestyle and radiant glow throughout her pregnancy.

Great Eats with Andre James

Andre loves not only eating but also grilling meat. In his IG story highlight entitled “Traeger,” you will find a compilation of him just grilling and having a wonderful time off from the field.

Another story highlight, “Great Eats” features him having great food and fun with fellow Raiders teammates. 

Go check his Instagram Highlights and have a some entertaining moments recorded by our Raiders guard and center, Andre James!

Andre James Las Vegas Raiders Center

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