The NFL Top 100 list has started to roll out, and Derwin James has landed right in the middle of the conversation.
The Chargers safety checked in at No. 50, a spot that feels a little light for a player who has become one of the most important pieces on Los Angeles’ defense. Even so, it’s still a notable nod for a versatile defender who keeps showing up in every phase of the game.
James was a huge part of why the Chargers finished 11-6 last season. He’s the kind of player who sets the tone on the back end, makes plays all over the field and gives the defense a presence it can build around.
Bleacher Report’s Joseph Zucker broke down James’ ranking ahead of the 2026 NFL preseason and pointed to the numbers behind the case for a higher placement.
"James finished 2025 with 94 combined tackles, three interceptions, seven pass breakups and one forced fumble. He was a suffocating pass defender, holding opposing quarterbacks to a 61.1 percent completion rate and 59.6 passer rating on 54 targets, per Pro Football Reference.
The Chargers' decision to give James an extension averaging $25.2 million speaks for itself. One secondary coach told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler that he 'had his best, most complete year' a season ago.
'Blitzing, coverage, tackling, just overall was really good,' they said. '… He can really do it all. And he's been healthy for a long stretch, which is good to see.'"
James moved up from No. 54 a year ago, so the climb is there even if the number still leaves room for debate. The list is driven in part by opinion and reputation, and that always creates some wiggle room for players to land higher or lower than expected.
Still, the message is clear enough: James is viewed as one of the league’s elite playmakers.
Now the challenge shifts to what comes next. The Chargers are trying to build on that 11-win season, and James will be right in the middle of the push as they aim to keep their defense playing at a championship level.
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