Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James has earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors from Pro Football Focus after an impressive first season in the NFL.
The Chargers compiled one of the league's best records this season in finishing 12-4 overall, but unfortunately, they still have to hit the road this weekend to take on the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
And while Philip Rivers and company were hard to handle on offense, the Chargers' defense stepped in numerous key situations to lead the team to victory.
James was undoubtedly a key factor in their success on the defensive side of the ball, and that helped him pick up Pro Football Focus' award for the best defensive rookie in the league this season.
Derwin James is the PFF Defensive Rookie of the Year
(via @PFF_Cam)https://t.co/MxBG1gtjjg pic.twitter.com/ToclOUVfmQ
— PFF (@PFF) January 3, 2019
James with 105 combined tackles and three interceptions, with the former Florida State star showcasing his potential by making a ton of big plays.
The Chargers will need him to continue to deliver when they face the Ravens on Sunday, as Lamar Jackson will present some challenges for the Los Angeles defense due to his ability to make plays in both the passing and rushing attack.
Of course, it was Baltimore that won the previous meeting between the two teams this season, which took place just a few weeks ago in Los Angeles.
Anthony Lynn will hope to see his team gain its revenge this time around, with the stakes certainly a lot higher.
And if James and the rest of the Chargers' defense can keep Jackson in check, it will go a long way towards securing a win.
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