James Nellis
Rfr. guard on North Dakota State's 2026 roster. No game stats recorded yet.
6′3″ · 290 lb · Grafton, WI · Grafton HS
Recruiting
IOL recruit
No. 2468 nationally · Signed with North Dakota State
No college snaps yet.
His full recruiting profileThe story
1 guard on North Dakota State's roster. No game stats recorded yet.
- Signed as a 3-star recruit to North Dakota State in 2025.
James Nellis
Limited signal — not enough coverage for a story yet.
His career
2025
- Signed with North Dakota State3-star out of Grafton
Splits & context
Supporting cast · Scheme
Staff and system around the player
Head Coach
Tim Polasek
Pass share
37.7%
72 pass / 119 run
Plays / game
63.7
3 games
Team sack rate
6.0%
84 dropbacks · PBP
Scheme: Run-heavy.
Awards
A three-star recruit at guard for North Dakota State -- now projected as a quality starter at the position.
Offensive line play doesn't show up in a box score. Here's what actually tells you whether he's good.
The unit he anchors ranks 6th nationally in stuff rate allowed this season. See the full unit breakdown →
How he plays
2026 Outlook
North Dakota State
2026 Depth chart
Projected starter
G · North Dakota State
Returning around him
- 2 North Dakota State players drafted to NFL
- Transfer portal: -4 net (3 in / 7 out)
2026 Award watch
No preseason watch lists yet (most drop June 15 – July 15)
North Dakota State · Last season: 12-1 · Talent rank #131 · 2026 recruiting class #117
Background
2025 SEASON (REDSHIRT): Member of the Bison football program...Did not play in any games. HIGH SCHOOL: Three-year starter and four-year letterman for coach James Norris at Grafton High School...Two-time team captain...All-state offensive lineman and two-time all-region...Three-time all-conference...