Chargers star Derwin James just received a compliment that proves he’s still the cream of the crop when it comes to defense
Derwin James has been around for the better part of a decade in the NFL now, but he’s not slowing down at all, and he just received a compliment that proves as much.
The Los Angeles Chargers are hoping that 2026 will be the season where they finally put it all together. With Mike McDaniel now coordinating the offense and the return to health of their offensive tackles, the Bolts will likely be seeing the endzone a ton in 2026.
But what about the defensive side of the ball? Well, as long as Derwin James is healthy and playing at a high level, the Chargers should be in good shape, especially when analyzing James’ 2025 season.
Derwin James 2025 stats
- 94 total tackles.
- 2 sacks.
- 3 interceptions, 7 pass breakups.
Derwin James named one of the most versatile players in the NFL
“Last season, James played more on the second level than he has in his career and arguably had his best season. Minter asked him to do a little bit of everything and he excelled. James could be the best pass-rushing defensive back in the league; he’s physical against the run, can cover man-to-man, and has sideline-to-sideline range in zone. He could be blitzing on one play and playing man on a tight end the next, while playing the “hole” in a Cover 2 zone on the next one.”
After dealing with injury issues early in his career, James has played 16 games in each of the last three seasons. In that time span, he has five interceptions, 21 passes defensed, 9.5 sacks, and 21 tackles for losses. He’s a true, do-it-all safety whose abilities have been maximized at the nickel position.” – Ted Nguyen, The Athletic
What makes Derwin James so special?
As Nguyen pointed out, James is basically a defensive coordinator’s prototype. You need him to turn the alley from depth, no problem. Want him to play on the roof of the defense as a cover-three safety? Sure thing.
But last year saw him transition to a role closer to the line of scrimmage, and he was just as valuable. It’s no surprise at this point, but that doesn’t mean it’s not appreciated. And just because Jesse Minter has left to be the head coach of the Ravens, that doesn’t mean that James will be slowing down.