James was all over the field against Legend. He accounted for 15 total tackles (13 solo, 2 assisted) 1 pass deflection, and 1 rushing touchdown. Cillessen demonstrated many qualities that any college would be fortunate to have. He’s very quick and all over the field. He’s able to do that thanks to very good athletic ability, and good mental processing. He’ll read the QB’s eyes and follow them to the ball carrier. Cillessen is a very good tackler, and it takes a lot for the tackles to be shed. A strong powerful bull rush is an excellent tool in his arsenal. He’ll use his good strength and low pad level to knock the offensive lineman on their feet and create pressure on the QB. Solid spin move as well. He’ll alternate between the different rushing styles to keep the offensive line on their toes.

Cillessen is a hard hitting backer that plays with great instinct and has that old school mentality the way he comes up to hit players. He can come downhill with force, knocking players off of their feet and even dislodging them from the football. He can use his strength to take on linemen, shedding blocks and making plays in the backfield. He has the ability to put pressure on the QB and bring them down whenever he gets his hands on them. He shows the ability to drop back into coverage and has soft hands being able to come away with some great interceptions. At times he shows the ability to make tackles in the open field as well.