NFL Media’s Adam Schein made some bold predictions for the 2021 season, and the Chargers were represented among them.
Schein believes that safety Derwin James will earn first-team All-Pro this upcoming season, just like how he did in his rookie campaign.
He’s heathy, happy and hopeful at Chargers workouts. That’s all I need. James is a ballhawk, a game wrecker … just a pure playmaker. Plus, he’s a great teammate. The shame is that, three years into his NFL career, we’ve seen one healthy season. But what a season it was! As a rookie, Derwin racked up 105 tackles, 13 passes defensed, six QB hits, 3.5 sacks and three interceptions, earning first-team All-Pro honors in the process. I say he gets right back to that lofty status in 2021.
Dear, Football Gods … Please keep Derwin healthy. He deserves it. The Chargers deserve it. We deserve it
James returned to the practice field earlier this week after missing the entire 2020 season due to a torn meniscus.
Now fully healthy, James will have a chance to display his versatility in new head coach Brandon Staley’s defense. He will be used in a variety of roles, where is expected to make a huge impact.
When James is on the field, opposing offenses are more prone to struggle due to his rare skillset against the pass, run, or as a blitzer.
In two seasons, James has 139 tackles, three interceptions, 3.5 sacks and 14 passes defensed.
At the end of the day, ensuring James is healthy is what matters the most. Since 2018, he has only played in 21 games.