NFL Draft: Grading each 2018 first-round pick after Week 11
By Randy Gurzi
17. Los Angeles Chargers: Derwin James, S
There weren’t very many mock drafts that had Florida State safety Derwin James lasting this late into the first round, but he slid all the way to No. 17. The Los Angeles Chargers jumped at the chance to add him to a steadily improving defense that already included stars like Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram on the edge.
With those two harassing the quarterback, L.A. really just needed someone to patrol the back end of their defense. And with the team missing Bosa for the majority of the season, James not only did that but also very quickly became their star.
Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley has used James in a multitude of ways, and he’s handled all with ease. He lines up close to the line of scrimmage and can play in press coverage, but also is effective when blitzing the passer, as evidenced by his 3.5 sacks after 10 games.
James has just one interception but has broken up seven passes while playing excellent zone coverage. Bradley was a part of the “Legion of Boom” in Seattle and the defensive coach could be on his way to building just as strong a unit with James as the centerpiece.
Grade: A+