Why contract extension negotiations for Chargers QB continue to move slowly

On Monday at the team's charity event, head coach Brandon Staley said the quarterback's contract discussions are "ongoing," per Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.

Herbert, who has two years remaining on his contract, affirmed his faith in the team and didn't make any demands about his new contract.

"They've done such a great job taking care of us, and my message really hasn't changed," Herbert said via Thiry. "It's been an honor to be part of this team. It's great to come to events like this, and whatever happens, happens, and it's out of my control at this point."

Los Angeles might be delaying the negotiations because long-term extensions for QBs continue to soar. Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson and Philadelphia QB Jalen Hurts signed five-year deals with an average salary of over $50M earlier this offseason.

After finishing second in passing yards for consecutive seasons, Herbert has leverage and could ask for a similar deal. It would devour the Chargers' cap space, though. Per Spotrac, they only possess $11.85M in cap room.

Los Angeles is a good team, yet they're not a bona fide Super Bowl contender. General manager Tom Telesco may want a more team-friendly deal, which he believes Herbert understands.

"At least in our situation, I don't think I need to have that talk with our quarterback," Telesco said, per Thiry. "I think he's fully aware, has really good self-awareness of how much money he's going to make and how it affects the team."

Herbert is imperative for the success of the Chargers, so both parties probably will agree to a deal, but it will take time.