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NFL Draft grades: 10 first-round picks that get an A

By Joe Romano

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Roquan Smith is chosen as the eighth overall pick by the Chicago Bears poses for photos during the first round at the 2018 NFL Draft at AT
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Roquan Smith is chosen as the eighth overall pick by the Chicago Bears poses for photos during the first round at the 2018 NFL Draft at AT /
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Derwin James
TALLAHASSEE, FL – SEPTEMBER 23: Defensive Back Derwin James #3 of the Florida State Seminoles celebrates after a play during the game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on September 23, 2017 in Tallahassee, Florida. NC State defeated Florida State 27 to 21. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

Derwin James – Los Angeles Chargers (Pick #17)

Another shocker of the first round of the draft was the slide of the safeties. Minkah FItzpatrick slid to the Dolphins and pick number 11 (more on that later). Fellow safety Derwin James of Florida State was selected with the 17th pick by the Los Angeles Chargers. This pick was mocked early on but did not seem realistic after an explosive combine elevated James stock. His slide is still a bit inexplicable.

James is a fantastic athlete who was a leader of the Florida State defense. After a phenomenal 2017 season, most thought he was a lock for the top ten in 2018. A down year for the team and an injury start to the season scared off some teams and produced sub-par tape. As the year progressed and James got healthier, his play elevated.

The Chargers lacked that identity in the middle of the defense and now James will bring that. He is a leader in every sense of the word and will command that entire defensive backfield the minute he arrives at camp. The team has outstanding corners and edge rushers, the middle of the field was sparse. Now they have one of the draft’s best playmakers back there patrolling and it could push the entire unit to a new level. Playing to his strengths will be key for the Chargers. Stick James around the line of scrimmage and handling tight ends and the could be a potential All Pro with his blend of athleticism and size.

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