Chargers, Derwin James agree to Rookie Contract

And breath. The Los Angeles Chargers have signed first-round pick Derwin James to a four-year rookie contract.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared the details of the deal:

The #Chargers signed first-round safety Derwin James to a 4-year, $12.39M contract, source said, which includes $7.1M signing bonus.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 1, 2018

Of course, rookie contracts shouldn’t be an issue anymore because there is very little leeway within the numbers. But the Chargers did have to deal with the Joey Bosa saga which seemed never-ending in 2016. The defensive end didn’t sign his contract until late-August.

With James’ contract confirmed, the team has all seven draft picks under-contract – all with a very good chance at making the roster.

It was a surprise to most that the Florida State product fell all the way to the 17th pick, and Tom Telesco and the Chargers took full advantage of that.

Read More: Los Angeles Chargers: Three Defensive Breakout Candidates

On the field, James will become very important piece in Gus Bradley’s defense. He has the versatility to play multiple positions at the next level including both safety spots, and as a nickel linebacker. Notably, James was a excellent blitzer in college, and the Chargers have already lined him up next to Bosa and Melvin Ingram as a pass-rusher during OTAs, a number of times.

– Thomas Herd is a Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage Sports Media. He covers the Los Angeles Chargers. Follow him on Twitter @chargers_uk.