James Graham

Former NRL International Captain, Media Host and Speaker

A former England and Great Britain rugby league captain, NRL All Stars player, and 423-game veteran of the NRL. Now a respected media host, James brings expert insight, authentic stories, and leadership lessons from elite sport to corporate audiences.

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James Graham is an English former professional rugby league footballer, widely regarded as one of England’s most capped players. He played for St Helens in the Super League, represented England and Great Britain at international level, and went on to play 423 first-grade games in the NRL between 2003 and 2020. James captained both England and Great Britain, earning recognition as an NRL All Stars player and respected leader on and off the field.

Since retiring, James has built a strong media presence. He is a host of the popular podcasts The Bye Round and Head Noise, the latter a 9-part series exploring the impact of professional football on the brain, masculinity, risk, reward, and responsibility. He is also a regular on Triple M NRL radio and a panellist on Fox Sports NRL, offering expert analysis and commentary.

Beyond media, James is a sought-after business and motivational speaker. Drawing on his professional experience, leadership journey, and deep connection to rugby league, he inspires diverse audiences while supporting grassroots programs and contributing positively to the future of the game.