2022 NFL Training Camp: Players holding out/in for new contracts

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NFL Free Agency; Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. (33) during the second half against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL players holding out at camp: Derwin James, S, Chargers

This one is surprising. Los Angeles Charger safety Derwin James, similar to Deebo Samuel, is holding “in” as he is at practice with his team but is not participating with his teammates.

James’ case is peculiar as he is not known for his availability. When James is on the field he is a force to be reckoned with however since his rookie season in 2018 injuries have plagued his on-field opportunities.

James played in 16 games in 2018, followed by 5 in 2019, zero in 2020, and 15 in 2021.

Essentially Derwin James has played in 36 out of 65 games and while he has achieved two Pro Bowl selections there is still more James has to prove on the field.

The Chargers picked up his fifth-year option for 2022 which scheduled him to receive a salary of $9,052,000, none of which is guaranteed at signing.

James may want to be paid as a top-tier safety but being active for a full* season, which would be his second one since 2018, may help the Chargers’ front office be more comfortable paying him as such.

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