Ourlads' Profile:
2024 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about D.J. JAMES:
Auburn | HT: 5115 | WT: 175 | 40 time: 4.42 | Arm: 3100 | Hand: 0838 | Wing: 7238
Two year starter, transfer from Oregon in 2022 where he played three seasons. First-team All-SEC in 2023, second team in 2022. Slender frame with desired height. Experienced in man and zone concepts including press and off man. In off coverage shows quick pedal and transitions to lateral and turn and run. Spacing reacting to route stem and breaks is usually precise. Incredible foot quickness and agility shows in man coverage as he easily mirrors route breaks from the shiftiest receivers. Has the speed to stay with deep vertical routes. In press, shows both reactive and jam techniques where he is tough to shake through the route. Using trail technique he maintains an interval and closes with the ball in the air. Excellent eye discipline to keep his focus on the receiver throughout the route. As a zone defender, he shows the vision to see and react to the quarterback delivery key while maintaining spacing on receivers. Rarely out of position on multiple routes. Sudden plant and drive on the release. Has made some big hits separating receivers from the ball. While he’s flashed some big tackles, he’s not the most aggressive in run support and can get dragged on tackles. Tends to hesitate on blocks and not get in position to make a play. Lack of bulk shows battling big receivers at the catch point. His athletic attributes alone make him a prospect who can fit in a variety of schemes. Could develop into a valuable sub-package corner in the NFL.
2023 Stats: 38 T, 3.5 TFL, 10 PBU, 2 INT. OSR:13/30. Draft projection: 1st/2nd round