SerpApi.Org
Chargers’ Derwin James not quite the GOAT safety like Jim Harbaugh says, but he’s nearly NFL’s best appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James has maintained his status as one of the most dependable defenders in the NFL. When he is totally dialed in, there might not be anyone better than him at stopping a run.
Last season, James tallied 94 combined tackles, including 50 solo tackles, six tackles for loss, seven passes defended, and three interceptions. Those numbers were a testament to his versatility, doggedness, and competitiveness.
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh has gushed about James’ all-around acumen, while also generously calling him the “best safety” he has ever seen in the NFL.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
“When he tackles, he gets them down, but he can cover, he can play any position in the secondary. I guess what jumps out the most is he can play nickel, he can play dimebacker, he can play corner, he can play in the deep half, he can play in the deep middle, he can blitz,” said Harbaugh in September.
While Harbaugh thinks James is the league’s top safety, Sports Illustrated begged to disagree, putting the five-time All-Pro at No. 2 in its annual rankings, trailing only Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton. Still, James earned high praise.
“The numbers line up with what Harbaugh said. Per Next Gen Stats, James was one of five players to align on the line of scrimmage, at linebacker and at safety on at least 100 snaps during the 2025 season. He ranks third among defensive backs in blitz rate and second in pressures, and also was effective as a run defender,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s Eva Geitheim.
She noted that the five-time Pro Bowler should “maintain a similar role” under defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary, who took over from Jesse Minter.
James signed a three-year, $75.6 million contract extension with the Chargers in May, which made him the highest-paid safety in the NFL for the second time.
Like ClutchPoints’ content? Be sure to follow us.
Related: Analyst sends ‘dizzying’ warning to defenses about new Mike McDaniel Chargers’ offense
Related: 3 Chargers cut candidates on chopping block entering 2026 NFL training camp
