Donaldson (currently injured at the time), was part of the Hull Kingston Rovers' side that won promotion back to the Super League, at the first time of asking following relegation the season prior, securing automatic promotion through the 2017 Qualifiers process.[5][6]
Donaldson made his long-awaited return from his ACL kneeinjury on 15 March 2018, in a Super League fixture against the Huddersfield Giants, Hull Kingston Rovers ran-out 6–38 victors, with James featuring from off the interchange bench.
It was revealed on 10 October 2018, that Donaldson would be departing Hull Kingston Rovers following a restructure of the club's on field personnel.[7]
Donaldson appeared on only one occasion for the York City Knights on 11 March 2018, four-days later he made his long-awaited return to the Hull Kingston Rovers' fold, following his long-term ACL knee injury that he sustained the season prior.[citation needed]
Donaldson scored for the York City Knights on a single dual-registration appearance, in a 22–24 victory over Oldham.
It was revealed on 6 December 2018, that Donaldson had been handed a trial at the Leeds Rhinos ahead of the 2019 campaign.
Donaldson was subsequently given a chance to "prove his worth" to new Leeds Rhinos Head Coach David Furner, in all hopes of earning a contract at the club on a permanent basis.
On 8 January 2019, after a successful trial, Donaldson signed a one-year contract with the Leeds Rhinos.