Running back Sampson James enters transfer portal

IU running back Sampson James has entered the transfer portal, IndyStar confirmed.

The former Avon High School standout ran for 371 yards and 3 touchdowns over the last two seasons and was competing for playing time with Stephen Carr and Tim Baldwin. James was listed as the No. 2 running back on the Hoosiers’ preseason depth chart.

James was a four-star prospect coming out of Avon and committed to Ohio State but coach Tom Allen flipped him to IU in a recruiting coup. James also entered the transfer portal his freshman season but returned to the Hoosiers.

James rushed for just 96 yards on 32 carries last season after a promising freshman season.

Baldwin and Carr are IU’s top two backs, though other players could work their way into playing time, including Trent Howland, if he can get healthy. Baldwin rushed for 141 yards on 22 carries last season.