Rams CB Jalen Ramsey praises Derwin James after new deal

Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Los Angeles Rams CB praises Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James after receiving new record deal

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 8/17/22

Pittsburgh Steelers two-time Pro Bowler Minkah Fitzpatrick became the highest-paid safety in NFL history when he signed a four-year, $73 million contract extension in June. It was reported by Daniel Popper of The Athletic in late July -- amidst his contract hold in -- that Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James, a fellow two-time Pro Bowler, was "likely" seeking a new deal that would make him the highest paid player at his position.

The 2018 First Team All-Pro got his wish on Wednesday.

Derwin James and the Chargers have agreed on a massive 4-year $76.4M extension, which averages $19.133M a year and resets the safety market. This deal makes James the highest paid safety in NFL history, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 17, 2022

Los Angeles Rams three-time First Team All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey congratulated James via Twitter shortly after the extension was reported.

LETS GO!!!!! Dinner on you now lil bro @DerwinJames … you deserve this new contract more than anyone!
BEST IN THE BUSINESS! pic.twitter.com/FNfDMi7ms8
— Jalen Ramsey (@jalenramsey) August 17, 2022

The 26-year-old member of the Chargers secondary tore his meniscus during the summer of 2020 and missed the entire season, but returned in 2021 to set career highs in combined tackles (118), tackles for loss (seven) and quarterback hits (7). James also added the first three forced fumbles of his career, along with five passes defended, two sacks and a pair of interceptions, despite missing two games.

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