NFL Contract Details: James, Steelers, Berrios
The NFL has seen a wave of significant contract agreements, highlighted by Nick Herbig’s $100 million deal with the Steelers and Derwin James’ $75.6 million extension with the Chargers. According to recent reports, these deals, alongside agreements for Darnell Washington and Braxton Berrios, mark a shift in roster commitments for three different franchises.
How much did Derwin James agree to with the Chargers?
Derwin James has signed a three-year extension to remain in Los Angeles worth $75.6 million. The deal ensures the safety stays with the Chargers through the end of the decade.
According to OvertheCap.com, a final detail of the agreement includes a $3 million roster bonus. This payment will be due on the third day of the 2029 league year.
What are the specifics of Nick Herbig’s $100 million deal?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have committed $100 million over four years to outside linebacker Nick Herbig. The contract includes $42 million in guaranteed money, per OvertheCap.com.
Of that total, $21 million is fully guaranteed at the time of signing. This consists of a $19.68 million signing bonus and a 2026 base salary of $1.33 million.
Herbig’s deal also features roster bonuses of $7 million, $6 million, and $6 million. These are due on the third days of the 2028, 2029, and 2030 league years, respectively. Additionally, he can earn $300,000 in workout bonuses each year.
What does Darnell Washington’s new contract include?
Tight end Darnell Washington has agreed to a four-year deal with the Steelers worth $42 million. Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac reports that the contract includes $20.25 million in total guarantees.
At the time of signing, $11.25 million is guaranteed. This amount includes a $10 million signing bonus and Washington’s 2026 base salary of $1.25 million.
The agreement also allows Washington to earn annual roster bonuses of $2.5 million from 2028 through 2030.
How does Braxton Berrios’ Giants contract compare to others?
Braxton Berrios has signed a one-year deal with the New York Giants for $1.3 million. According to Dan Duggan of The Athletic, the contract is a veteran minimum deal.

The agreement consists solely of a $1.3 million base salary with no guaranteed money. This low-risk structure is noted as being similar to the deal signed by Odell Beckham, Jr.
What happens next for these players?
The heavy guarantees in the Steelers’ deals for Herbig and Washington could mean these players are likely to remain central pieces of the roster for several seasons. The structure of their roster bonuses may influence how the team manages its salary cap in 2028 and beyond.
For Berrios, the one-year nature of his contract suggests he may be playing for a larger deal in the future. His performance this season could determine if the Giants seek a longer-term commitment or if he becomes a free agent again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the terms of Derwin James’ extension?
James signed a three-year, $75.6 million extension with the Chargers, which includes a $3 million roster bonus due on the third day of the 2029 league year.
How much guaranteed money did Nick Herbig receive?
Herbig’s four-year, $100 million deal includes $42 million in total guarantees, with $21 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Does Braxton Berrios have any guaranteed money in his Giants deal?
No. Per Dan Duggan of The Athletic, Berrios’ one-year, $1.3 million veteran minimum deal contains no guaranteed money.
Which of these contract structures do you think provides the best balance of security for the player and flexibility for the team?