Sep 15, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh throws a pass before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie -Imagn Images

Jim Harbaugh crowns Chargers superstar with bold statement that sets him apart from every other player in NFL history

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 6:52 PM ET

With Jim Harbaugh as their head coach, you can always expect great soundbites coming from the Los Angeles Chargers. The latest comment that has gone a bit viral from the experienced leader was about a star defender, who doesn't get quite enough love sometimes. He paid the ultimate respect to a player who has earned his quickly and dramatically since Harbaugh arrived in LA.

Harbaugh has now given a new title to one of his best players on the roster, safety Derwin James. James is a four-time All-Pro selection and has made four Pro Bowls. He's still just 29 years old.

Jim Harbaugh calls Derwin James the best safety he's ever seen

During some time with the media, the Chargers head coach didn't hold back on making claims regarding his dynamic leader on defense. Harbaugh believes that James is the best safety he has ever seen play in the NFL. Keep in mind - this puts the Bolts playmaker ahead of players like Ed Reed, Ronnie Lott, Brian Dawkins, among plenty others.

"The best safety I've ever seen in the history of the National Football League." -- Jim Harbaugh on Derwin James

"The best safety I've ever seen in the history of the National Football League."

Jim Harbaugh has some high praise for Derwin James @chargers pic.twitter.com/tFFT0nNTnr
— NFL (@NFL) September 16, 2025

This proclamation from Harbaugh is on the heels of a fantastic performance by James and the entire Botls defense. James and linebacker Daiyan Henley combined to make play after play. Los Angeles did not allow the Raiders to score a single touchdown.

James, when healthy, has always been an Energizer bunny, sort of player on the back end (and sometimes up front) for the Chargers. His athleticism, instincts, and leadership are all elite factors in his game and profile. Not to mention, he is leading a young secondary currently, one that many people had doubts about last season. They over-performed then - and look even better this season.

While there have been many great safeties to come through the game over the last decade-plus, like Tyrann Mathieu, Kam Chancellor, and Kyle Hamilton, James' impact has possessed longevity and upside. With plenty left in the tank, he's hoping to continue dominating for Los Angeles for years to come.

James certainly has a massive fan and believer in him in his current head coach, too.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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