James received extra reps in Tuesday's practice due to Charles Sims (ankle) sitting out the session, the Tampa Bay Times reports.

EDGE Analysis

The fourth-year back is once again trying to shore up a backup spot behind Doug Martin and Charles Sims. James didn't exclusively soak up the extra reps that opened up with Sims' absence, as fellow veteran Storm Johnson and rookie Peyton Barber also got a crack at some fill-in work. The additional time on the field shined a larger-than-usual spotlight on the trio, giving head coach Dirk Koetter a rare extended look at some of his backfield reinforcements. "I've always liked Mike James," Koetter said. "Mike James is a solid player, but he's in a battle right now with Storm Johnson and Peyton Barber. Your 3-4-5-6 running backs will get some good looks in the preseason."