Derwin James says he plans to show up at Los Angeles Chargers camp with or without a contract extension

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Chargers are scheduled to open training camp next week, and All-Pro safety Derwin James is ready to report whether or not he has a contract extension in hand.

“Oh, yeah, I’ll definitely be there,” James told ESPN on Friday after surprising students at Jordan High School in Watts with a renovated weight room, football helmets and visors as part of the Chargers Impact Fund.

The 17th draft pick in 2018, James is entering the fifth and final season of his rookie contract and is expected to earn $9 million.

James offered few details on a possible extension, but told ESPN, “Yeah, sure,” when asked if he felt okay about the situation.

“My agent is handling it,” James said. “I don’t even know where they are, but I’m pretty sure my guy, he’s doing his best for me. I know he’s doing his thing for me.”

James, 25, is represented by Athletes First’s David Mulugheta, who previously made record deals for cornerback Jalen Ramsey and safety Budda Baker, among others.

The Chargers are optimistic a long-term deal will be reached, possibly as soon as players report Tuesday, similar to how a blockbuster deal was struck two years ago with passing thrower Joey Bosa as he arrived at the camp just before the report deadline. .

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, some in the league expect James to soon be the highest-paid safety in the NFL.

James has been limited throughout the offseason program after undergoing surgery on his left labrum in February following a second Pro Bowl appearance. Coach Brandon Staley said James was feeling fine, but the decision to steer clear of certain drills stemmed from an abundance of caution.

James said Friday he was in good health.

“It’s the best I’ve felt in the last four years, and I can’t wait to go,” James said.

In three seasons, James intercepted five passes, deflected 19 passes, three forced fumbles and 5.5 sacks.

James only played five games in 2019 due to a foot injury and he missed the entire 2020 season due to a knee injury.