DEFENSIVE BACKS
Starters: SS Derwin James, FS Rayshawn Jenkins, CB Casey Hayward, CB Chris Harris, CB Desmond King
Backups: FS Nasir Adderley, CB Michael Davis, CB Brandon Facyson, SS Alohi Gilman [R]
Starting DBs: James was robbed of most of his second NFL season, but returned late to play 99% of team snaps over the final 5 weeks. He didn't make many plays as he worked back into game shape, but was a tackling machine, averaging 6.8 a game. Healthy entering 2020, James again looks like a fantasy DB1. He's just a year removed from a debut that saw him break up 13 passes, intercept 3 more, and record 3.5 sacks. Jenkins played all but seven defensive snaps last year, but was subpar across the board and will have to hold off Adderley, last year's second-round pick, to keep his job next to James. The Chargers' cornerbacks are a truly gifted bunch, though they have some sorting out to do before September. Hayward is an occasionally-dominant cover man on the outside, capable of winning tough battles with top wideouts. But King and ex-Bronco Harris both make their hay in the slot, and it remains to be seen who will line up outside in base sets. Harris has the resume, but he's had past success on the boundary. For his part, King has been smothering in the slot, and he also makes plays on the ball. With Hayward and Harris typically being avoided by passers, King boasts the strongest fantasy potential for leagues that require cornerbacks to start.