2018 NFL Draft Profiles: Derwin James
- Tyler Webb
- Jun 18, 2017
- 2 min read
Derwin James, Safety, Florida State
6’3, 212 Lbs, Junior, 4.52 40 Yard
Jalen Ramsey was one of the best cornerbacks to come out of the draft in a while, and soon Florida State might bring the NFL it's best safety prospect in a long time. Derwin James was a 5 star recruit, and the #1 safety coming out of his high school class, and the 5th best player in the nation according to 247Sports.com. At 6’3, James is a giant safety with tons of range, and could be a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. His freshman year he bursted onto the scene racking up 91 tackles, 9.5 tackle for losses, and 4.5 sacks earning him USA Today All-American. Just two games into his sophomore season, he tore his meniscus which sidelined him for the rest of the year. You could see the Florida State defense really struggled with his leadership and play making ability on the field.
James loves to attack whoever has the ball in their hands. Whenever it's game time, James lets his pit bull out and lets loose on the field. If he gets a hand on you, you're most likely not getting away from the tackle. I literally watched Derwin James lift a Florida offensive tackle and throw him to the ground, and continues to chase the quarterback down. He reminds me of a heat seeking missile, and will hit you like one too. He strikes at his opponents like a Viper does on his pray, and does not allow his opponent to come down with the ball.There were plenty of times when the receiver would catch the ball but Derwin James would knock the player so hard he drops it. He has the vision to see where a play is going before it even snaps. He plays both free safety and strong safety, but could work on his blitzing and pursuit when he is at the line of scrimmage.
Possible Landing Spots: Top 12
San Francisco 49ers - San Francisco just added two of the best defensive players in this past draft, but they still need secondary help badly. Would be a perfect fit next to Reuben Foster.
Miami Dolphins - The Dolphins have both their starting safeties becoming free agents next year, and could use youth in their secondary.
Buffalo Bills - Buffalo has a ton of new faces in their secondary, but not very much talent. Derwin James would provide instant play making ability.
Comentários