Los Angeles Chargers star Derwin James signs colossal new deal as he becomes NFL’s highest-paid safety for SECOND time

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. 

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.