Chargers Select FSU’s James 17th Overall

For the second time in three years, a Florida State defensive back has been selected in the first round.

Safety Derwin James’ NFL dreams became a reality on Thursday night as he was selected 17th overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The last FSU defensive back to go in the first round was Jalen Ramsey, who went fifth overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016.

James’ redshirt sophomore season of 2017 wasn’t as flashy as many expected, but solid nonetheless. Fresh off a meniscus tear that derailed all but two games of his 2016 campaign, James finished with 84 tackles, including 5.5 for loss and a team-high two interceptions.

Throughout his tenure at FSU, James did it all for Charles Kelly’s defense. As a freshman in 2015, James ranked in the top 3 for the Seminoles in tackles, tackles for loss, sacks and forced fumbles.

Mike Ferguson is the editor of The Daily Nole. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson