New England Patriots receive high grades in 2018 NFL Draft first round
Los Angeles Chargers No. 17: Florida St. S, Derwin James
The Chargers landed what looks like the biggest steal of the first round. With a ton of wheeling and dealing being done around them, Los Angeles just sat by patiently. Once they came on the clock, they ran that card up to the podium to announce their pick.
With the 17th pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the Chargers selected Florida State safety, Derwin James. Seeing James available at the 17th pick was shocking, as he was regarded as a top-10 prospect in this year’s class. There were some mocks having him landing as high as No. 7. Instead, he slipped down to No. 17 and the Chargers are reaping the benefits.
James should slot right into the Chargers’ starting lineup alongside Jahleel Addae, replacing Tre Boston. Boston played free safety with the Chargers, so James will be asked to adjust his game some alongside Addae. However, James is athletic and versatile enough that he should be able to adapt to a different position.
James was productive in his time at Florida State. He had 84 total tackles, 5.5 of which went for a loss, adding one sack. He also had two interceptions and 11 passes defended.
The Chargers secondary is really coming along. James could be the final piece to what is shaping up to be a very strong defensive backfield.