Pro Football Hall of Famer Edgerrin James has publicly stated that his son, Edgerrin James Jr., is struggling with substance abuse issues and has asked his social media followers to refrain from giving his son money.
James Jr., a 21-year-old college basketball player known as 'Jizzle,' was recently removed from the Charlotte 49ers men's basketball team roster. He had previously played for the University of Cincinnati.
"Jizzle is dealing with substance abuse and is NOT in the right state of mind right now," Edgerrin James wrote in an Instagram post. He urged followers to offer support, but not financial assistance.
"If you see him, show him LOVE – but DO NOT give him money, valuables, or anything material," the elder James continued. "You're not helping him by feeding the problem. He wants/needs for NOTHING… Give him a hug. Give him encouragement. Give him love. THAT'S IT… Be patient with him. We're fighting for him, not against him."
James Jr. was a highly recruited point guard from Orlando, Florida. He joined the Cincinnati Bearcats for the 2023-24 season and averaged 10.8 points per game over three seasons. His three-point shooting improved significantly, reaching 44.2 percent by his junior year.
However, his time with the Bearcats proved challenging. In August 2025, head coach Wes Miller confirmed James Jr. had been removed from the program the previous month. He rejoined the rotation in December but announced his intention to transfer to Charlotte after the season, a transfer that did not materialize.
Edgerrin James, a four-time Pro Bowl running back and a teammate of Peyton Manning, is the father of six children. He shared four children with his late long-time girlfriend, Andia Wilson, who died of leukemia in 2009 at age 30.