ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has once again surveyed the league to put together the top 10 players at each position.
The safeties were announced Thursday, which meant the annual appearance for Derwin James, Jr.
The Chargers defensive leader came in at No. 6 this year, moving up one spot from the 2024 edition.
One of the baddest safeties in the game burst onto the scene with an All-Pro rookie performance in 2018 before battling injuries for several years. He has been healthy for the past four seasons, returning to his disruptive self in 2024 after a down year in 2023.
Betting on James’ high-end traits and a new system paid off for Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who watched James produce career-highs in tackles for loss (10) and sacks (5.5).
“He’s so disruptive around the ball and physical that you have to know where he is at all times,” an NFC scout said. “He showed what he can do when healthy and put in positions to affect the ball.”
James recorded 93 total tackles (60 solo), seven passes defended, 10 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and one interception over 16 games in 2024.
He also made an impact on every level of the defense. He played 361 snaps at slot corner, 281 in the box and 234 at free safety this season, according to Pro Football Focus.
Fowler also noted that James’ annual stellar play could put him in rare air in Bolts history.
The Chargers just announced their former safety, Rodney Harrison, will enter the franchise’s hall of fame. James will likely join him one day.
Fowler’s full list can be found here.