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Rookies James, Nwosu set for big impact on Chargers' D

The Chargers hope first-round pick Derwin James is one of the players who can fix the team's run defense. AP Photo/Chris Carlson

A breakdown of the Los Angeles Chargers 2018 draft class and its progress after three weeks of training camp:

Derwin James, S, first round: While he’s yet to crack the starting lineup, the Florida State product has flashed explosive playmaking ability at times during training camp and in games, and should be a significant contributor once the regular season begins.

Uchenna Nwosu, OLB, second round: The USC product has a sack and a handful of pressures through two exhibition games, working in with the starters and the second unit. Nwosu will be tabbed to spell talented pass-rushers Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, making sure they’re fresh and rested on game days.

Justin Jones, DT, third round: Jones has not seen the field this preseason due to an ankle injury sustained during the first week of training camp. However, coaches liked what they have seen so far from Jones, and he’s expected to be in the defensive line rotation once healthy.

Kyzir White, OLB, fourth round: Fast and explosive have been two words coaches have used to describe the West Virginia product, who totaled four tackles in his only action in the preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals. White suffered a knee injury and did not play in a Week 2 exhibition game against the Seattle Seahawks, but is expected to be a part of the Chargers’ third-down defense during the regular season.

Scott Quessenberry, OL, fifth round: The UCLA product has worked at guard with the second unit and also serves as a backup at center. He has played solidly through two games, appearing to quickly pick up the playbook and could earn a role as a rotational interior offensive lineman for the regular season.

Dylan Cantrell, WR, sixth round: Cantrell flashed speed and playmaking ability as a vertical threat early in camp, but suffered a bone bruise to his right knee and has not participated in preseason play, affecting his ability to make the final roster.

Justin Jackson, RB, seventh round: Like Cantrell, Jackson also has been limited by injury, not playing in the first two preseason games due to a hamstring strain. Jackson is competing for the No. 3 running back spot behind Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler, but will be pushed by undrafted rookie Detrez Newsome.