The Los Angeles Chargers selected Florida State star Derwin James with the 17th-overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Here’s all you need to know about James.
After watching James fall to them at the 17th pick, the Los Angeles Chargers wasted no time in snagged what could be the best safety in the class.
Strengths
Played all over the field for Florida State. Play speed is outstanding and he flies around the field. Was a playmaker as a freshman, but played more physically as his career went on. FSU loved to blitz him off the edge where he gets into passing lanes constantly. Changes direction well. Can click and close in zone coverage though FSU doesn’t use him much in underneath coverage. Will take on tight ends in the run game.
Straight line speed is outstanding. Closes with burst and force. Size and length shows up in his ability to close down passing lanes. Plays LB against teams that struggle to throw the ball so he can be around the ball more. He knows this defense, was calling it as a sophomore so he’s a smart kid. Tracks the ball extremely well down the field. Fluid hips and can change directions effortlessly for a guy his size. Excellent attacking the ball in man coverage. Burst is off the charts.
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Weaknesses
Comes down and fills hard in the run game, though not always sure he knows where he’s going. Plays 100 MPH but his read-and-react ability is still evolving. His aggressiveness and speed work to his disadvantage at times because he’ll run himself out of a play.
When he’s not in the play, doesn’t always give max effort. A little awkward in his pedal in coverage. Looks good covering the slot, but doesn’t have as much experience there as other top safeties.
Grade
Grade: A
This is a no-brainer pick for general manager Tom Telesco and the Chargers, who needed to replace Tre Boston.