BENCHED to BEST: Derwin James LEAPS in NFL Safety Rankings | Did ESPN SNUB Other Chargers Defenders?

Los Angeles Chargers’ defense gets a reality check with only one player cracks ESPN’s top-10 lists. Derwin James is the lone superstar that this elite defense has been built around, and he is finally getting that recognition from around the NFL. Daniel Wade and David Droegemeier break down how Derwin James has reclaimed respect as one of the NFL’s best safeties, earning the league’s No. 2 spot. The analysis spotlights James’ versatility, All-Pro honors, and crucial leadership both on the field and in the locker room. The episode also tackles Daiyan Henley’s plight—highlighting his fall from top linebacker consideration and what it will take for him to rebound. Plus, the hosts debate Tuli Tuipulotu’s glaring snub and explore whether new additions like Akheem Mesidor can fill the Chargers’ star power gap. Can defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary and the improved depth across the defensive roster compensate for a lack of marquee talent? Don’t miss this honest look at the state of the Chargers’ defense and what it will take to rise in the NFL rankings. Photo Credit: Kirby Lee -Imagn Images   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMto play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/lockedonnfl! #squarepod Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDON.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Ultra Pouches Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONNFL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad   Warby ParkerOur listeners can buy one pair of glasses and get 20% off any additional pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNFL — and using our link helps support the show. #WarbyParker #ad OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.