After a strong comeback season that earned him Second-Team All-Pro recognition, the Los Angeles Chargers are expecting even more from veteran safety Derwin James Jr. as they look ahead to next season.
With defensive coordinator Jesse Minter taking over last year, James was utilized more frequently near the line of scrimmage and in the slot—areas where he’s historically performed well. Now, under new safeties coach Adam Fuller, the focus is on taking James’ performance to an even higher level.
“He hasn’t hit his full potential yet—there’s still so much he can achieve. What’s most impressive is how badly he wants it.
Players like him are motivating; they push you to grow. Sometimes it’s not just about technique—it’s about perspective, learning from his own experience, the staff’s insight, and Coach Harbaugh’s leadership to keep elevating his play. You can see his enthusiasm. Last year’s coaches did a great job, but there’s still more room for him to grow.”
Derwin James Jr. Is the Guy Who Can Make Things Right
No matter the circumstances, James has consistently been a dependable presence for the Chargers. “He’s the kind of player who can step in and fix things regardless of the position we lose,” said defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.
Fuller will soon witness firsthand the high standards James holds himself to. As Thuc Nhi Nguyen of the Los Angeles Times pointed out, “James makes direct eye contact with everyone he speaks to. He immediately insisted on learning every detail about the defense.”
That mindset has propelled James to four Pro Bowl selections and a 2018 First-Team All-Pro honor.
In 2024, Pro Football Focus ranked James as the ninth-best safety in the NFL, awarding him an 80.8 overall defensive grade (9th of 98), a 75.2 pass rush grade (5th of 24), a 76.3 coverage grade (11th of 96), and an 87.9 run defense grade (5th of 93)—truly elite metrics.
Regarding his positioning, James lined up mostly in the box (305 snaps), at slot corner (385 snaps), and as a free safety (250 snaps).
Leadership & Impact Beyond the Stats
Although James’ statistics are impressive, it’s his leadership that stands out as perhaps his greatest asset. Coaches and teammates frequently commend him not just for his physical talent, but also for his commanding presence and ability to energize the locker room. As a team captain, James exemplifies what it means to lead by example.
His role is especially vital for a Chargers defense that has battled inconsistency in recent years. His adaptability makes him a key resource for younger teammates, whether it’s learning a new coverage or making in-game adjustments. Both Minter and Fuller have described James as an on-field extension of the coaching staff, seamlessly communicating shifts and checks across all defensive levels.
With a new coaching regime focused on discipline and accountability, James’ leadership becomes even more pivotal as the Chargers work to rebound from last season’s disappointing playoff loss to the Houston Texans.
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