Paul James has been a member of the Ospreys since 2003. He has made over seventy-five appearances for the region to date. 

James has representative honours for the Wales Youth, U19 and U21 levels. He has also represented his country at senior level; he has one Wales cap, gained against Romania in 2003.

James underwent back surgery in January 2006 which saw him out of action for four months. However, he had a strong 2006–2007 season in which he made 26 appearances and gained his first try for the region, in the Magners League clash against Connacht. The season also witnessed James captain the Ospreys to their historic 24-16 win over Australia in November 2006.

James has also representative honours at Wales Youth, U19 and U21 levels.