Scottish-born James Duke played once for Exeter City in April 1923. He joined the club from Bristol City having started his professional career with Grimsby Town. 

He made his Football League debut with Grimsby Town for  whom he played for in the 1919/20 and 1920/21 seasons making six league appearances. James then moved to Scunthorpe & Lindsey United of the Midland League before receiving another Football League opportunity on signing for Bristol City in the summer of 1922.

Staying at Ashton Gate for just a few months, James moved on to Exeter in December 1922. Initially joining on a one-month trial, he made his debut for the reserves in a 7-0 defeat at Plymouth Argyle on 26 December 1922 before being offered a short-term contract. 

His only first-team appearance for Exeter City came in the Division Three (South) 3-1 defeat at Merthyr Town on 12 April 1923.