One of the FSU football program’s top defenders will not be playing in the Independence Bowl matchup against Southern Miss.
On Tuesday afternoon, college football insider Brett McMurphy announced star safety Derwin James will not be suiting up this bowl season after deciding to forgo his final eligibility to declare for the 2018 NFL Draft.
James, a redshirt sophomore, burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2015, recording 91 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four passes defened, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
After his stellar freshman campaign, James missed his sophomore year due to a tear to his lateral mesiscus and cartilage damage.
James bounced back in 2017 with 84 tackles, two interceptions, one sack and a touchdown.
Now, he’s ready to take his talents to the NFL.
Florida State’s Derwin James declares for 2018 NFL Draft & won't participate in Independence Bowl
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) December 5, 2017
Southern Miss and Florida State face off on Dec. 27 at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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