 On 24 January 2013 it was announced that James had signed for Exeter Chiefs for the 2013–14 season.On 20 December 2014 it was announced that James had returned to the Cardiff Blues on a two-year deal.On 1 June 2015 James was included in the Welsh training squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup, and was included in the Welsh squad for the 2016 Six Nations Championship..