COSTA MESA, CA — On day three of Training Camp, players finally had the opportunity to put the pads on, something many players including sophomore safety Derwin James have anticipated for a while.
“It’s a lot different in helmet and shorts than when you put the pads on,” James said. “When you put the pads on, it’s like, ‘Ok man, these are teammates,’ but [at the] same time you want to hit. You want to show you’re aggressive and physical. So, just all those things, but [also] being clean and keeping your teammates clean.”
James had a sensational rookie year that was not only impactful for the Chargers, but put the entire league on notice. James is a quintessential part of the Bolts defense, however he understands that every year is a new year to prove your worth.
“You have to come out and play all games, playoffs or whatever else we have,” James said. “I mean, that was last year. Everybody gets a clean slate this year so, I mean, that’s how my mindset kind of works. Just basically starting over and doing it again.”
James wants to continue to grow as player and be more vocal on the field, and with the addition of rookie Nas Adderley, James will be more locked in this season with the much needed help on the other side of the field.