FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are just a few weeks away from the kickoff of the regular season. A 90-man roster at the start of training camp will be whittled down to just 53 men in a matter of a few weeks. As athletes do everything they can to secure their final roster position, one undrafted man is still hoping to be picked up by the team.
Twenty-six-year-old James Harden graduated from James Madison High School in Dallas and has high hopes to play for the team he grew up watching. He's been at every open practice this training camp to show coaches he has what it takes to be on the field.
"You go somewhere and believe in yourself, this world hates confidence," said Harden. "I'm out here by myself walking with my cleats and a whole board. A lot of people give up."
Harden has marketed himself in an untraditional fashion unlike any other football player. With video to show proof of his talent, Harden has leveraged social media and a science board to market his talent.
"I just want an opportunity, really," said Harden. "I'm not asking for any money, I got my own cleats, helmet and shoulder pads."
From the Houston Texans to the Giants' training center in New Jersey Harden has traveled far to show coaches he means business. Written on the sign Harden travels with is his phone number, stats, and even a bible verse. This is Harden's second year trying to get the attention of the Dallas Cowboys.
"I don't like being denied. if you keep denying me knowing I've worked my a** off, imagine working out by yourself over and over every day sweating, crying to yourself - that stuff mentally get to you," said Harden. "You're like dang, I'm doing all this stuff and nothing is happening."
Harden said he has played for teams in different leagues too, but his opportunities have quickly folded.
"I've signed five contracts, and have played on two of the teams," said Harden. "Teams folded, leagues folded, and COVID took me away from it, so I knew it wasn't for me."
After every practice Harden blasts off the pavement racing every vehicle leaving the training camp facility. One car is bound to have a decision-maker within the team who notices a young man with raw talent in pursuit of greatness.
"God got me here, so I would rather keep drinking them prayers. I pray and he keeps me going," said Harden. "If I'm not praying for it, ain't no point in working for it. Faith without work is dead."
