The Gwinnett Sports Commission would like to introduce a new highlight series,  “Gwinnett Greats”. Each week this series will feature a former Gwinnett County student-athlete who has continued to shine in their athletic career or has continued to work closely in the sports industry. We are telling these athletes stories to show our youth that hard work, perseverance and lots of practice is how you accomplish your goals and make dreams a reality.

To start the series off, we would like to recognize Denver Bronco, Ja’Wuan James as our first Gwinnett Great. Ja’Wuan graduated from North Gwinnett High School in 2010 where his football career consisted of an incredible senior season with the Bulldogs finishing on a 12-1 record. Ja’Wuan posted 74 blocks and did not give up a sack all season. At the conclusion of his season his achievements were celebrated by being named to the AAAAA all-state team. His high school career was noteworthy, but it was just the beginning for Ja’Wuan! His next stop was Knoxville, Tennessee to play for the University of Tennessee Volunteers. James’ career at Tennessee was even more outstanding, starting in all 49 games he played. His career at Tennessee was followed by an impressive first round (19^th overall) draft pick into the NFL by the Miami Dolphins. Ja’Wuan was with the Dolphins from 2014-2018 and started in all 62 of his appearances. In the 2019 NFL draft, the North Gwinnett grad signed a 4-year, $51 million-dollar contract with the Denver Broncos becoming the highest paid right tackle in the league.  Congratulations on all your success in the NFL! We wish you all the best in starting this next chapter of your career as a Denver Bronco!