Derwin James signs record deal to stay with LA Chargers

One of the NFL’s best defensive players, Derwin James, has re-signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in a record deal. His four-year, $76.4 million deal is the biggest contract ever given to a safety and he is expected to lead the Chargers defense for years to come. The Chargers have spent a lot of money to improve their defense this offseason, but locking up James seemed to be a priority.

The 26-year-old safety is considered one of the best secondary players in the NFL. Last year, he had 118 tackles and two sacks. He also had two interceptions and three forced fumbles. James makes an impact in a variety of ways and this new contract shows he is crucial to the Chargers’ plans.

Due to star quarterback Justin Herbert playing on his rookie contract, the Chargers have been able to spend a lot of money on other positions. The Chargers have already signed cornerback J.C. Jackson to a five-year, $82 million contract in free agency, and they also traded for edge rusher Khalil Mack and his massive contract. Now, James will feature in what should be an improved defense as the Chargers make a Super Bowl push.

James was one of our picks to win the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, and he is paying +5000 to do so. James projects to be a key part of the Chargers defense, and if they have a good season, James will get a lot of credit for their turnaround. He also has the capability to force a lot of turnovers, and if he does so, voters will have a tough time leaving him off their ballot.

At +1500 with Bovada, the Chargers are one of the favorites to win the Super Bowl, and considering they didn’t make the playoffs last year, that would be quite a turnaround. On paper, this team looks ready to compete for a title, and if Herbert takes another step, the Chargers should be close to unstoppable.

However, Super Bowls aren’t won on paper. The Chargers play in the same division as the Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders. All of those teams should be very strong, so it could be a season where they cannibalize each other. At this time, it is best to hold off on betting the Chargers to win the Super Bowl and there should be better opportunities to wager on them as the season progresses.

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