COSTA MESA, Calif. _ Before he was a draft pick, an NFL player or a Charger, Derwin James knew what he wanted to be more than anything else this season:
A starter.
"That was one of my goals when I met with every team," the defensive back said, recalling his predraft interviews. "I had that confidence. You gotta play this game with a lot of swag."
James' swag and performance earned him a starting safety job for his first official NFL game, the Sept. 9 season opener against Kansas City at StubHub Center.
"That's what we're looking at right now," defensive coordinator Gus Bradley said Monday, smiling. "We can't show our hand too much."
The 17th player taken in this year's draft, James has impressed the Chargers with his maturity, leadership and ability to operate from multiple spots on the field.
He started at strong safety Saturday against New Orleans, with veteran Jahleel Addae at free safety. James ended the Saints' first possession by intercepting Drew Brees.
"There is going to be a learning curve," Bradley said. "I think he'll go out and make a mistake here and there, but he'll also make some splash plays."
James has been on the field for 106 snaps through three preseason games, the most among Chargers defenders. He has been credited with eight tackles, including one for loss.
But it hasn't been just his performance between the whistles that has pleased Bradley, who noted James' eagerness to communicate with teammates after plays and series.
"I see him as a natural leader," Bradley said. "I think he's finding his place. But, at times, he can't help himself. That's who he is. He leads. I love his personality. He's got a great spirit about him.
"As he gains confidence in what he's doing, it will be even more. He's already talking ... very animated. He's got a lot of energy. I think that personality will show more once he gains more confidence in the system."
For now, James is at that point he and the Chargers envisioned four months ago at the draft.
"I'm not just trying to start," James said. "I'm trying to make plays. It's more than just earning a starting job. Now, what are you going to do with it?"
