Derwin James has been a pillar for the Los Angeles Chargers since being drafted by the team in 2018, and that’s why he signed a four-year extension worth $76.53 million in 2022. However, time flies, because James is already entering the final season of that deal.
The veteran safety is set to be a free agent after the 2026 season, and considering that he’s still playing at an elite level, and is only turning 30 in August, there’s a big demand from fans to keep James in a Chargers uniform. Fortunately, Los Angeles general manager Joe Hortiz feels the same way that fans do.
In a recent appearance on the Up & Adams Show, Hortiz was asked by Kay Adams how high of a priority is it to make James a Charger for life. The general manager quickly respond that it’s an extremely high priority, before going on to wax poetic about the veteran safety.
GM Joe Hortiz wants to make Derwin James a Charger for life ✍️
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 21, 2026
Sounds like an extension is coming soon!@chargers | @DerwinJames | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/kWOriibtEz
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz is determined to make Derwin James a Charger for life
Hortiz shared the story about how when he worked with the Baltimore Ravens, James was the top-ranked player on their board when it was time for Baltimore to pick. Instead of taking the safety, the Ravens traded back, and James landed in Los Angeles.
When Hortiz found his way to the Chargers in 2024, and first met the safety, he told James you should’ve been a Raven, but I’m glad you’re not, because Hortiz and James are now on the same team. The general manager is determined to keep it that way.
Hortiz explained James is a special leader and person. While his talent as a football player is clear and obvious, and also something that Hortiz appreciates witnessing, it’s the safety’s leadership that really endears him to his general manager. Hortiz even ended things by saying James is one of the best players he’s ever been around as far as leadership, character, and talent.
Those are the kind of statements that everyone makes about James, including Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. That’s why it seems like a no-brainer decision that the safety will be extended. It could happened this offseason, during the year, or before the veteran reaches fee agency.
While it’s unclear when the deal will get done, it’s clear the Chargers are committed to getting a deal done with Derwin James.
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