General manager Joe Hortiz made it a priority for Derwin James to remain a member of the Los Angeles Chargers for life.
The Chargers and James took a giant step forward to make it happen.
James and Los Angeles agreed to terms on a three-year, $75.6 million extension with $57.1 million guaranteed, NFL Networks insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday.
With an average annual salary of $25.2 million in his rookie years, James replaces the Baltimore Ravens’ Kyle Hamilton ($25.1 million per year) as the league’s highest-paid safety on APY.
The 29-year-old James was entering the final year of his contract, leading Hortiz to declare re-signing the five-time Pro Bowler a top priority. Obviously the GM meant what he said as James, a 2018 first round pick, is currently signing his second extension with the club.
About the NFL will have more shortly.