Derwin James has become the NFL’s highest-paid safety for a second time after agreeing a new three-year, $75.6million extension with the Los Angeles Chargers.
According to multiple reports, James’ contract – which works out as $25.2m per year – includes $57.5m guaranteed.
He previously became the league’s highest-paid safety when he signed a four-year, $76.4m deal with LA in 2022.
Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton previously set the benchmark in the position when he penned a contract worth $25.1m per season last year ($100.4m in total), yet James’ extension surpasses it annually by around $100,000.
The five-time Pro Bowl selection, who was hailed as ‘the best safety I’ve ever seen in the history of the National Football League’ by Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh last season, has been one of the team’s most important defenders since they drafted him in 2018.
He was entering the final year of the four-year extension he signed four years ago, meaning tying him down to fresh terms was seen as a priority for general manager Joe Hortiz.
Derwin James has become the NFL’s top-paid safety for a second time with a new $76.6m deal
James’ new contract – which works out as $25.2m per year – includes $57.5m guaranteed
James earned his fourth All-Pro honor last season after another impressive year, in which he registered 94 tackles, seven passes defended, three interceptions and 2.0 sacks in 16 appearances as the Chargers made it to the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
The ex-Florida State star returned to form under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter after a rare off-year in 2023, which was the only season so far he has not made a Pro Bowl in LA.
Minter, who left to become head coach of the Ravens, used James primarily in the nickel, a move which saw him total 7.5 sacks over the past two seasons while blowing up running plays in devastating fashion.
Following Minter’s move to Baltimore, James will now look to inspire first-year DC Chris O’Leary to similar defensive success in 2026.
‘One of my favorite players I’ve ever worked with and coached because of how contagious his energy is, how great he wants to be,’ said O’Leary, who was the Chargers defensive backs coach in 2024.
‘So, I can’t put into words how excited that I’m not ready to get started right now.’
