FSU Alums: Derwin James projected to start opening game for Chargers
By Jason Parker
Derwin James became the latest former FSU star to get picked in the first round – which means he is expected to start right away in Los Angeles.
There is no secret that when you are one of the players taken in the first round of the NFL Draft each season, you are expected to do big things right away for your team – or, at the very least, not spend too long on the bench getting ready for a long career in the pros. You can count Derwin James as one of those players who will be the focus of eyes once the 2018 season starts.
The former All-American safety for FSU football is going to have plenty of expectations after being taken 17th overall by the Los Angeles Chargers last month – and already has plenty of people saying it’s the best spot for him based on who he will be playing for and the defensive scheme.
With training camp still over two months from beginning, James is already being penciled in as the projected opening day starter by many – including ESPN writer Eric D. Williams, who projected the entire starting group and depth chart for the Chargers at this point in the offseason.
"We should see a lot of experimentation with rotations during offseason work and training camp, but for now I believe James, the Bolts’ first-round draft pick, will start at free safety."
Derwin James is going to be loved by the new defensive coordinator for the Chargers, Gus Bradley – who some FSU fans will remember from his time as the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bradley and head coach Anthony Lynn have made it clear they will use James all over the defense, much like what was done his final season with the Seminoles.
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It’s a thin line when you are a rookie to be expected to be a game changer right away. With that being said, Derwin James is that once in a while type athlete who can come into the starting lineup and play like a seasoned pro right away. The Chargers are not going to abuse his talents, but please believe he will see the field early and often in the 2018 season.