Derwin James Will Win Defensive Rookie of the Year

The Chargers were pleasantly surprised when Derwin James fell to them with the No. 17 pick in the draft. James was regarded as one of, if not the top, safety prospect in the entire draft. The attributes that James possesses will help him win Defensive Rookie of the Year.

In order to win the award, James must be able to force a lot of turnovers. At the safety position, James is a big hitter. If he is able to get inside the box on run plays and force some fumbles, that will help his award efforts.

Derwin James has both the size and quickness to cover multiple positions. James will be placed all over the field during the season. He will get the chance to cover receivers, running backs, and tight ends all year. Veteran quarterbacks will challenge the rookie giving him a chance to show his playmaking skills and gather some interceptions.

Secondary players don’t tend to win defensive player of the year awards often. Although, in the past three years, Marshon Lattimore and Marcus Peters, both cornerbacks, have won the award. Peters and Lattimore were both top five in interceptions the season they won the award.

James’ numbers in tackles, forced fumbles, and interceptions will boost him to a Defensive Rookie of the Year award.