WATCH: Derwin James power bombs Travis Kelce
Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James did a great job defending Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce through the first three quarters of Thursday Night Football. But his play of the night came late in the third period at Arrowhead Stadium.
After Kelce caught a pass from Patrick Mahomes, James literally lifted him up and slammed him to the ground, causing the ball to come out. But the officials ruled Kelce down by contact, meaning the Chiefs kept possession of the ball.
Still, James’ hit went viral on social media almost immediately.
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Kansas City ended up settling for a game-tying field goal to end the drive, making it a 17-17 tie as the fourth quarter got underway.
Derwin James signed a monster contract extension over the offseason
Over the offseason, the Chargers signed James to a huge contract extension, as ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported.
“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,” tweeted Schefter. “This deal makes James the highest paid safety in NFL history, per source.
“After a short hold in, agent David Mulugheta and the Chargers have a deal that will get the safety back on the field.”
Over the course of his NFL career, James has been a superstar when on the field. While the injury bug has bit him on multiple occasions, the former Florida State star has proved enough that the Chargers are willing to commit to him for the extended future.
James has ascended to become one of the top defensive players in the entire league, and now he’s being paid like one. It’s a good day to be the star defensive back, and a good day to be a fan of the Los Angeles Chargers.