The Los Angeles Chargers and star safety Derwin James have agreed to terms on a record-breaking three-year, $75.6 million contract extension, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The deal officially makes James the highest-paid safety in NFL history for the second time in his career, per @RapSheet. The extension includes $57.5 million in guaranteed money and carries an average annual value of $25.2 million. This benchmark resets the positional market previously established by Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton, who signed a deal worth $25.1 million annually last offseason.
James, 29, has been a cornerstone for the Chargers defense since entering the league. Head coach Jim Harbaugh recently lauded the veteran, calling James "the best safety" he has ever seen. The extension follows a productive 2025 season in which James recorded 94 total tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions.
Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz had recently identified an extension for the five-time All-Pro as a "high priority" for the franchise following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft. With the deal finalized, James is now locked in as a leader for the Los Angeles secondary for the foreseeable future.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
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