2018 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year
17. Derwin James, FS, Los Angeles Chargers
2018 Stats: 105 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, 3 INTs, 13 passes defended
Despite coming off the board at No. 17, Derwin James is already seen as one of the biggest steals of the 2018 NFL Draft. The Los Angeles Chargers legitimately struck gold when they decided to end his slide and upgrade their secondary with the Florida State safety.
There hasn’t been anything James is incapable of doing for the Los Angeles defense. Need him to make a big play in coverage? You’ve got it. How about step up and make a big stop against the run? No problem. The Chargers have even asked him to be a difference maker off the edge, and he’s answered with excellence.
Chargers rookie safety Derwin James has recorded 16 total pressures in 2018, giving him the single-season record for total pressures by a rookie safety in the PFF era (2006-Present) with a game to go. pic.twitter.com/mZmMp0sfLi
— PFF (@PFF) December 25, 2018
It’s as if there isn’t anything James can’t do. That’s why he found himself being selected as a 2019 All-Pro when all was said and done. Despite all of the other safety talent around the league, the Chargers’ rookie managed to convince voters he’s already among the best in the NFL.
Anytime fans of a team that selected ahead of the Chargers were disappointed in their first-round pick, they said something along the lines of, “and to think Derwin James was still available.” That should tell you everything you need to know about how outstanding the No. 17 overall pick has been this season.
Grade: A+