From the Ashes of 2023: Derwin James Jr. Rises Back Up to Reclaim His Spot at the Top

Derwin James Jr. signs a three-year extension with the Los Angeles Chargers, marking his second deal with the team after being drafted in the first round in 2018. The extension arrives amid a busy OTA period that also saw quarterback Justin Herbert return from Europe to support his girlfriend, Madison Beer's tour. The safety, known for his versatility, helped energize a defense whose EPA per pass ranking dropped from 10th in 2022 to 25th in 2023 under previous defensive schemes. With new coordinator Jesse Minter and safeties coach Chris O’Leary, James was ranked the seventh-best safety in NFL rankings entering training camp, though questions about value and contract have since been resolved.