Chargers fortify secondary by taking Derwin James

The Los Angeles Chargers selected safety Derwin James out of Florida State with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

James is an outstanding athlete who will be able to contribute immediately for the Chargers. A dynamic playmaker, James sports the ability to return interceptions for touchdowns and shows great field vision with the ball in his hands.

The former Florida State standout is a devastating hitter in the open field and is a willing contributor in run support, doing a great job of wrapping up ball carriers.

James tore his meniscus in 2016 and some teams appeared to be concerned about his injury history. If he's healthy, however, James has the potential to become a Pro Bowl level safety,

Derwin James Bio

Position: S
School: Florida State
College Experience: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 6-2
Weight: 215 lbs

Strengths

• Phenomenal athlete who sports the prototypical build for an NFL safety.
• Entered Florida State as a mega-prospect and exceeded expectations.
• Does a great job in run support and is a willing tackler who wraps up the ball-carrier.
• Can be used effectively as a traditional safety or hybrid linebacker.
• Devastating hitter in the open field.

Weaknesses

• Relies on athleticism to bail him out of mistakes.
• Tore his meniscus in 2016, and some teams may be concerned about his injury history.

Athletic testing