'At the heart of everything good' - Saints boss Dowson hails departing James

And the director of rugby has nothing but good things to say about the attitude of the scrum-half, on and off the pitch, as James prepares to join Saracens this summer.

Following impressive spells in the Champ with both Doncaster Knights and Bedford Blues, as well as in National One with Loughborough Students, James arrived in Northampton in 2020.

He had previously represented England Students in 2016, and made his senior Saints debut against London Irish in late 2020 – shortly after rugby resumed following the pandemic shutdown – quickly establishing himself as a reliable and trusted member of the playing group.

James opened his try-scoring account for the club on his European debut, dotting down in the Investec Champions Cup against Leinster in Dublin, and has regularly contributed valuable points throughout his time in Northampton.

Renowned for his tactical kicking, crisp service, and professionalism, James’ consistency and work ethic have seen him selected for Saints’ biggest fixtures in recent seasons, including appearances off the bench in both the Gallagher PREM final in 2024 and the Investec Champions Cup final in 2025.

His 50th appearance for Saints came in a hard-fought 19-18 victory over Leicester Tigers in January 2023, while James brought up his century for the club in Dublin in 2025 as the black, green and gold defeated Leinster in an unforgettable Champions Cup semi-final.

James will exit Saints at the end of the season, and Dowson was quick to pay tribute to the influential No.9.

“TJ has been right at the heart of everything that’s been good about Saints over the last few years," Dowson said.

“He arrived from Doncaster hungry, determined to prove himself at PREM level, and he’s done exactly that.

"His performances on the pitch have been top quality, but, just as importantly, his buy‑in off the pitch has been exceptional.

“He’s a tough, tenacious competitor, hugely popular within the group, and someone whose attitude has been exemplary whether he’s starting matches or coming off the bench.

"Competing with one of the best scrum‑halves in the world (Alex Mitchell) here never fazed him – he’s always focused on improving himself and contributing to the team.

“TJ has played in some truly epic matches, won the league, reached a European final and brought up his 100th appearance for Saints in that remarkable semi‑final in Dublin – you can’t ask for much more than that.

“Add to that the quiet, passionate and selfless work he’s done with the Foundation, and it tells you everything about his character and the man he is.

"We’ll look to send him off in style at the end of this season, and wish him all the best for the future when the time comes.”

Away from the pitch, James has also made a meaningful contribution to the local community through his role as a Programme Ambassador for Northampton Saints Foundation.

Actively involved in the Saints Inside programme, James made regular visits to HMP Highpoint to share his knowledge of training, mindset and professionalism to inspire participants – helping them build confidence, gain qualifications and prepare for life beyond custody.

“Not only has TJ been an outstanding player for Saints, he has also gone above and beyond to leave a genuine and lasting legacy through his work with the Foundation,” added Jordan Letts, chief executive of Northampton Saints Foundation.

“TJ’s impact will be felt far beyond the pitch. Through countless visits to HMP Highpoint as part of our Saints Inside programme, he has given his time to support men rebuilding their lives, showing real compassion, leadership and a belief that there is always a way forward.

“He has represented the values of Saints with humility and authenticity, and for that we are incredibly grateful.

"TJ will always be part of the Foundation family, and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey.”