Deacons add Raleigh standout Mat James

Versatile Sanderson High football standout Mat James has accepted a football scholarship to Wake Forest University.

"Wake Forest is recruiting him as an athlete," said Sanderson coach Tony Lewis. "He is 6-foot-5, weighs 200, is really fast and really strong. He is an outstanding prospect."

Lewis said Virginia Tech was recruiting James as a potential defensive end.

"Mat could end up around 250 pounds," Lewis said. "Wake Forest is going to look at him first as a wide receiver and he might end up playing there all four years, or he might develop at another position."

James returned kickoff and punts for Sanderson and was a leading receiver.

"He has great hands, long arms and can fly," Lewis said. "He has worked hard to develop as a football player."

--Tim Stevens