Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James has played just five games in the last two years combined as he hasn't been able to shake free of injuries. Both he and LA are hoping for a much different 2021.

James is being held out of preseason games entirely, as are a lot of Chargers starters. LA though, has had a few joint practices with the San Francisco 49ers and per Gilbert Manzano of the Los Angeles Daily News, James is loving the joint practices.

“It’s big for me,” James said, via Gilbert Manzano of the Los Angeles Daily News. “We’re going out here going fast. I played against Kittle, one of the best tight ends in the league. Their offense is one of the best in the league. Seeing the looks from them only helped me get better.”

It was also noted that James approached Kittle before the joint session between the Chargers and the 49ers and mentioned to the superstar tight end that people wanted to see them matched up against one another.

The Chargers are a sleeper pick for many this year to burst onto the scene and potentially compete for a playoff spot.

Justin Herbert will be in year two after an incredible rookie campaign and there are really good weapons around him on the offensive side of the ball. The defense is reloaded and primed to take a step or two forward as well.

The AFC West still goes through the Kansas City Chiefs but the Chargers plan to make plenty of noise in 2021.