2018 NFL Draft: Prospects who should rise after Scouting Combine

TEMPE, AZ - OCTOBER 14: Running back Kalen Ballage #7 of the Arizona State Sun Devils celebrates on the field after defeating the Washington Huskies in the college football game at Sun Devil Stadium on October 14, 2017 in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils defeated the Huskies 13-7. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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Derwin James is a proverbial lock to come off the board in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. His injury history could keep him out of the top 10, however, which is where a player of his talent, skill level, and versatility should be.

After the 2018 Scouting Combine, the odds should improve dramatically of James emerging as one of the first 10-to-15 players selected in April.

James is a 6’3″ and 215-pound safety with the range and athleticism to change the course of a game. He’s a playmaker in the secondary, with the IQ and physical ability to turn a promising throw into six points the other way.

James is also an excellent tackler with the closing speed, physicality, and power behind his hits to overwhelm even the best of running backs.

At the Scouting Combine, James’ combination of size, athleticism, and strength should help him get to where he deserves to be in the NFL Draft hierarchy. Injury concerns exist, but if his knee checks out, he should rise up draft boards around the league.

James could be a playmaking free safety or a hard-hitting strong safety. Regardless of where he lines up, he has the tools to be a star.

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