Browns: Top 5 safety targets in the 2018 NFL Draft
2. Derwin James, FSU
Florida State Seminoles safety Derwin James is an athletic freak. At 6-foot-3 and 211 pounds, James is almost oversized for the position. Thankfully, he could run in the 4.4s for the Scouting Combine’s 40-yard dash.
Even battling through injury in 2017, James managed to make 89 tackles, as well as two interceptions, and eleven batted passes. James showed incredible versatility in Florida State’s schemes.
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NFL.com gave James a 6.44 out of 9.0 grade and had this to say about him:
"“Absolute alpha in the locker room. Comes up to handle film sessions on weekends. When he talks, players listen.” — Lance Zierlein, NFL.com"
Fortunately for the Browns, that is exactly the kind of force they need in the locker room, and on the field. James fits best as a strong safety at the next level, allowing Jabrill Peppers to excel more in a free safety position, or even in the box.
James was one of the best safeties in the ACC throughout his entire career with the Seminoles. The only real concerns here are his injury history from 2017 and his lack of defensive reading ability.
NFL.com compares James to current Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry. James has tons of upside as a prospect, and his potential could be the highest in this class, regardless of position.
If Derwin James truly is Eric Berry, there is no way that the Browns can pass up on such a prospect. The potential is too high, the upside is too great, and to pass on such a freaky prospect as James would be an incredible disservice to Cleveland fans. There is, however, one better prospect.