Chargers GM drops crucial Derwin James contract extension update

Since his arrival in 2018, safety Derwin James has been one of, if not the most impactful player on the Los Angeles Chargers defense. The franchise is trying to ensure he doesn’t leave their secondary anytime soon.

Of course, that’ll take a contract extension, as James is set to be a free agent after the season. But once the NFL Draft is over, general manager Joe Horitz said he expects conversations about a new contract to heat up, via Khris Rhim of ESPN.

Horitz confirmed the same situation for outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu, meaning the Chargers are trying to get part of the band back together. The GM has confirmed he has already spoken with both player’s agents, meaning the process has at least started. Once the 2026 NFL Draft is over, talks will begin to get more serious.

When James signed his last extension back in 2022, his $19.1 million per year salary became the most ever for a safety in NFL history. With him going on 30-years-old, he may not receive the same type of bag. That being said, James will surely cash in after continuing to play stout defense with the Chargers.

He is coming off of back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances, giving him five overall for his career. During the 2025 season, James put up 94 tackles and seven passes defended while tying his career-high with three interceptions.

As the Chargers chase a Super Bowl appearance, they know their chances become much stronger with James on the field. And that’s every year he is on the roster, making Los Angeles more inclined to sign the safety to a long-term deal.

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