DJ James Scouting Report
By: Michael Higgins
(Image courtesy of John Korduner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
School: Auburn
Class: Senior
Position: CB
HT: 6’0
WT: 175 lbs
Sideline Prospect Ranking: #82
Background: DJ James was a 3-star cornerback from Spanish Fort, Alabama, where he attended Spanish Fort High School. He was a top-15 player in the state of Alabama and one of the best cornerbacks in the state. James was First Team All-Class 6A as a senior in high school, tallying 6 interceptions and 16 pass breakups. He was also named to the All-Coastal region and played in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game. James had several SEC offers on the table but chose to play for Oregon out of high school.
College: James played at Oregon for three seasons. He was mainly used as a starting cornerback at Oregon, making a huge impact on their secondary. After coaching changes took place in Oregon, James transferred back to his home state to play for Auburn. In his first season at Auburn, James displayed why he was a top transfer target in the country. He was selected to Second Team All-SEC by a variety of outlets.
Strengths: DJ James is a man coverage cornerback who plays with a high level of physicality. He is athletic and can use his range, length, and strength to stay glued to his man. He shadows wide receivers better than anyone in the country, going step for step with even the shiftiest players. James has fluid hips that allow him to transition smoothly from back pedal to sprint. His ball skills are also something to note. He gets his head around quick and has fast reflexes to get at least a finger on the football. James can make catches away from his body and dominate the catch point. If he gets the ball in his hands with room to run, he has the speed to do some damage and turn the game on its head. James maintains leverage throughout the route, displaying excellent body control the entire way.
Weaknesses: James is physical in coverage, excelling in both man and zone, but the physicality does not translate to his tackling ability. James does not have the power to make those big hits or take on bigger ball carriers. He is not a willing tackler; James is afraid of contact in the run game and gets caught going for the arm tackle rather than a full wrap up. Additionally, James is a poor run defender. He struggles to shed blocks in space and can easily get displaced.
Conclusion: DJ James is a lockdown cornerback with plenty of physical tools. If a team can compensate for what James is lacking, he has the ability to be an instant impact type of player.
