Son of 2003 Rugby World Cup fly-half seals Scotland switch

The 27-year-old arrives at Hive Stadium after an impressive three-year stint in Japan Rugby League One, where he notched up 294 points across 48 appearances for Dynaboars.

Prior to his move overseas, Grayson came through the ranks at Northampton Saints, spending seven seasons with the Premiership side and accumulating over 600 points in nearly 100 games across domestic and European competitions.

Capable of operating at both fly-half and full-back, Grayson brings valuable versatility to United Rugby Championshipside Edinburgh as they continue to strengthen under head coach Sean Everitt.

Rugby pedigree runs deep in the Grayson family. James is the son of former England international Paul Grayson, a 2003 Rugby World Cup winner and British & Irish Lions tourist, who made over 300 appearances for Northampton Saints during a decorated career.

Speaking after the announcement, Grayson admitted the move felt like the right time to return to Europe.

“I’m delighted to have signed with Edinburgh for next season,” he said. “After three years overseas, the time feels right to return closer to home, and the opportunity to play in the URC was a big factor in my decision.

“It’s a special moment for me and my family, and I’m really looking forward to competing, meeting the lads and playing in front of the supporters at Hive.”

Head coach Everitt believes the Englishman will add immediate quality to his squad.

“He’s an impressive player with a strong tactical kicking game and real experience at a high level,” Everitt said. “He’ll strengthen competition at fly-half and add real depth to the squad.”

Manu Tuilagi (Samoa)
Tuilagi remains one of the headline names. The England centre will become eligible in 2027 after completing the required stand-down period and has not ruled out representing his country of birth.

David Ribbans (South Africa)
The England lock qualifies for the Springboks through birth and could be an option as early as 2025 if he chooses to switch.

Billy Vunipola (Australia or Tonga)
A long-time England No.8, Vunipola has eligibility through both his birthplace (Australia) and Tongan heritage, offering multiple potential pathways.

Mako Vunipola (New Zealand or Tonga)
The experienced prop was born in New Zealand and is also eligible for Tonga, making him another intriguing candidate.

Hoskins Sotutu (England)
The Blues back-rower qualifies for England through family and has been linked with a potential switch despite All Blacks involvement.

Nepo Laulala (Samoa)
The 50-cap All Black tighthead becomes eligible in late 2026. Born in Samoa, he would add significant experience and power to their pack.

Shannon Frizell (Tonga)
A destructive loose forward, Frizell qualifies for Tonga and could be a major addition ahead of the tournament.

Akira Ioane (Samoa)
Still in his prime, Ioane has long been linked with Samoa and could be one of the most impactful potential switches.

Folau Fakatava (Tonga)
The exciting scrum-half is eligible for Tonga and could take on a leading role internationally if he opts to switch.

Ngani Laumape (Tonga)
Laumape has already expressed interest in representing Tonga and has been eligible since 2024.

Julian Savea (Samoa)
The All Blacks great is already eligible for Samoa and could still offer experience and finishing power.

Tyrone Green (England)
The South African-born back is on track to qualify for England through residency in 2026.

Lalakai Foketi (New Zealand)
The Australia international qualifies for New Zealand and could make a switch if opportunities arise.

Benhard Janse van Rensburg (England)
Another South African-born player impressing in England, he is eligible through residency and pushing for higher honours.

Dan Kelly (Ireland)
Already qualified via grandparents, Kelly could complete a switch from England to Ireland after his move to Munster.

Rhyno Smith (Italy)
The South African-born back has been linked with Italy, although his switch may depend on approval conditions.

Alex Lozowski (Italy)
The ex-England back qualifies for Italy through ancestry and could make an immediate impact if selected.