Derwin James and Del'Shawn Phillips of the Chargers received Second-Team All-Pro honors for their performances in the 2025 season, with James recognized for his defensive skills and leadership, and Phillips for his exceptional special teams play, setting franchise records and earning his first All-Pro nod.
Derwin James sealed the Chargers' 10-4 record and playoff elimination of the Chiefs with a game-winning interception against Travis Kelce in a close AFC West rivalry game, showcasing his playmaking skills and leadership.
The Los Angeles Chargers secured a 17-13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 13, thanks to a strong defensive performance. Derwin James Jr. sealed the win with a crucial interception, while Marcus Maye, a recent addition to the team, also made a key interception. Ladd McConkey shone offensively with 117 receiving yards, but the Chargers' offense struggled overall, managing only 187 total yards. Despite these challenges, the Chargers improved to an 8-4 record, maintaining their playoff position.
The New York Giants are facing uncertainty at the safety position with Xavier McKinney set to become a free agent. While retaining McKinney is a priority, the team is exploring potential options including Derwin James, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Antoine Winfield Jr., Kyle Dugger, Kamren Curl, Jeremy Chinn, Jayron Kearse, Taylor Rapp, and Terrell Edmunds to bolster their safety depth. Each player brings unique skills and experience that could benefit the Giants' defense, with the hope of solidifying the safety position for the upcoming season.
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed his goal of winning multiple championships and emphasized the importance of teamwork and effort during his introductory press conference. He confirmed Ben Herbert as the new head strength and conditioning coach and praised key players including Derwin James, dispelling any trade or cut rumors and positioning James as a cornerstone of the team's defense for the upcoming season.
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley's job security is in question after a humiliating 63-21 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. Staley expressed uncertainty about his future, but safety Derwin James and edge rusher Khalil Mack defended their belief in him. However, the team's inconsistent performance and numerous head-scratching defeats may outweigh their support, leaving Staley's position in jeopardy.
Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James believes that the team's defense, comprised of a group of "grown men," will finally come together and improve in the 2023 season. Despite having star players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, the Chargers' defense has struggled in recent years. The addition of linebacker Eric Kendricks is expected to bolster the run game, but the entire defense needs to take a step forward under head coach Brandon Staley. The Chargers' defensive performance has been closely tied to their win-loss record, and they are determined to become a dominant unit this season.