Middletown Native Signs NFL Contract With Atlanta Falcons

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Former Middletown High School football standout Tyshaun James recently signed a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons after the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft.

James, a wide receiver for Central Connecticut State University, was a two-time First Team All-Northeast Conference. He also set the school record for receiving touchdowns for the Blue Devils.

"This is a great day for Tyshaun, his family and also for our program," CCSU head coach Ryan McCarthy said in a news release. "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, according to the release. 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,” the news release states. “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.”

James 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 touchdowns.

James will participate in the Falcons’ rookie mini-camp in Atlanta from May 13-15, according to FOX 61.

James told FOX 61 that he’s always “been an underdog” from high school to college, and he’ll be ready for the opportunity.

Read more at FOX 61 here.

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