One day after signing a record-breaking contract extension with the Los Angeles Chargers … for the second time, Derwin James is back at OTAs, working out and trying to build chemistry with his teammates.
Ahead of practice on Wednesday, James joined the Pat McAfee Show and talked about the contract extension, as well as about his head coach, Jim Harbaugh. James had high praise for his head coach.
“I love Coach Harbaugh..
If you love football you’re gonna get along with him and I couldn’t ask for a better coach” @DerwinJames #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/cQBob9qDLH
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) May 27, 2026
“I love that man so much, man,” James said. “He is real, he is authentic, and I feel like if you love ball, and you love your work and craft, then you’re gonna get along with him very well. He has been treating me with nothing but the utmost respect. Day in and day out, I could not ask for a better coach.”
Last season, Harbaugh said that Derwin James is the best safety in the history of the league. The Bolts’ head coach continues to praise his star player less than a year later. Harbaugh spoke at a press conference on Wednesday.
“Just incredible,” Harbaugh said.” Just warms the cockles of the heart. When the best player at the position makes the most money … Also best player meets combination of best human being. Can’t say that anybody more than Derwin fits that.”
James has certainly put on a show during his NFL career. The safety is a 5x All-Pro and 5x Pro Bowler. Since Harbaugh took over as head coach, James has been a much more impactful player outside of just tackling. He has improved his covering skills while also being able to rush the quarterback, though he’s always been able to do that. James has 19 sacks in his career to go with 12 interceptions, six forced fumbles, and 684 total tackles (433 solo).
James will once again be one of the leaders of what should be another strong defense for the Chargers in 2026-27.
One day after signing a record-breaking contract extension with the Los Angeles Chargers … for the second time, Derwin James is back at OTAs, working out and trying to build chemistry with his teammates. Ahead of practice on Wednesday, James joined the Pat McAfee Show and talked about the contract extension, as well as about his head coach, Jim Harbaugh.