The Los Angeles Chargers and former 7th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Mike Williams, have made a deal to extend his contract. This comes extremely close to the league’s franchise tag deadline, which would have probably been the result had a deal not been made. Ultimately, Williams signed for $60M ($40M guaranteed) over three years, making him the second Chargers wideout averaging $20M annually (Keenan Allen). Some may be worried by this but with one of the best up-and-coming QBs, it’s important to build with familiar faces and Williams is one of Justin Herbert’s favorite targets.
Arguably the best 50/50 ball WR in the league, the newly paid Williams hauled in 76 catches for 1,146 yards and nine touchdowns last season, as many of those touchdowns came on the final drive of the game. The chemistry between the WR and his rising star QB may very well be the reason he signed for the high salary he did, along with the fact L.A. started the off-season with a lot of money to spend.
The deal also makes sense when you take into consideration the other Chargers coming towards the end of their contracts. SS Derwin James is on a fifth-year option and will be a free agent next year, RT Bryan Bulaga’s contract expires next season, and RB Austin Ekeler is also set to be a free agent in 2024. By the Chargers front loading his contract, it’s possible to pay most of his contract in this upcoming year where no other big name Charger is set for free agency, leaving them in a good position for years to come. Everyone is aware GM Tom Telesco doesn’t get too involved when it comes to free agency signing, so the possibility of losing Williams without a replacement makes this a smart deal for the Chargers.
