FSU Alums: Could Derwin James end up drafted by Tampa Bay or Miami?
By Jason Parker
Derwin James is going to be one of the early names taken in the NFL Draft – and could he end up staying in the state of Florida when it’s said and done.
For the entire 21 years he has been on this earth, Derwin James has been a resident of the state of Florida. After a standout prep career in Haines City – located about halfway between Lakeland and Orlando – James committed to the FSU football program while still in high school and spent three years in Tallahassee becoming one of the best players in the game.
There is no doubt that his name will be called early in the first round of the NFL Draft later this month, but some still wonder where James could end up playing. Will he be picked by a team like Oakland or Baltimore? Or will someone trade up and pick maybe the best safety available?
There is also one possibility that is picking up strength – Derwin James could end up staying in the state of Florida and be picked by either the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 7 or the Miami Dolphins at No. 11.
The Buccaneers recently published eight of the mock drafts made by writers from NFL.com and CBSSports.com – with half of them saying the Bucs are going to pick the former Seminoles who grew up just 65 miles away.
"NFL.com Chad Reuter (March 29) – S Derwin James (Florida State)Daniel Jeremiah (March 6) – S Derwin James (Florida State)CBSSports.comR.J. White (March 28) – S Derwin James (Florida State)Chris Trapasso (March 25) – S Derwin James (Florida State)Trapasso: “James brings a much-needed element of size, length, and athleticism to the Tampa Bay secondary.”"
At the same time, there is a chance that James could end up slipping a few spots and still call the Sunshine State home. Longtime draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. believes that Derwin James will be trading his garnet and gold for aqua and orange.
"At his best, James is an enforcer in the mold of Kam Chancellor — he’s not afraid to bring the wood. He can be a versatile defender who plays in the box and also covers the deep middle of the field. The Dolphins have arguably lost more talent this offseason than any other team, and they have needs all across their defense."
Whether he is playing an hour away from home or slightly over 200 miles down the Florida’s Turnpike, I’m sure that Derwin James would love to be able to play in his home state – and in front of FSU football fans who are going to continue to have his back – for at least the start of his NFL career.
Next: Derwin James: I'll be best safety in NFL in less than 3 years
We’ll find out where Derwin James and 31 other players go in the first round on April 26th when the NFL draft begins in Arlington, Texas.