At the beginning of the second week of free agency, the Los Angeles Chargers made a key addition by signing former Las Vegas Raiders center. While initial reports suggested the deal would be a short-term contract, the financial specifics were not immediately disclosed. However, earlier this week, new details about James’ contract emerged.
His contract for the 2025 season is worth $1.17 million, the veteran minimum salary. Even though he had a slightly underwhelming performance with the Raiders in 2024, this deal represents excellent value for the Chargers. At 28 years old this May, he has an opportunity to revitalize his career, especially if he can secure the starting center position. The star is none other than Andre James.
Chargers Strengthen Offensive Line with Low-Cost Additions
After sitting out the first four days of the interior offensive line market, the Chargers managed to land both James and offensive tackle Mekhi Becton for a total of $8.49 million in 2025. This strategic move allows them to avoid being forced into drafting a center or guard early in the 2025 NFL Draft.
While Los Angeles still has the option to address the left guard position through the draft, new general manager Joe Hortiz has structured the roster in a way that mirrors the Baltimore Ravens’ approach—prioritizing the best available player over positional need.
James’ deal does not come with any guarantees regarding playing time or starting status. With just a $1.17 million cap hit, the Chargers are setting up a competitive battle between James and veteran Bradley Bozeman for the starting center role.
Bozeman, who signed a two-year deal, carries a $5.065 million cap hit for 2025. However, only $3.375 million of that contract is guaranteed. If the Chargers decide to move on from Bozeman before the 2026 season, they could free up $3.1 million in cap space.
Chargers’ Current Salary Cap Situation
Earlier this week, I reported several Chargers’ 2025 salary cap figures, including James’ contract. Now, all of those values have been added to OverTheCap. Here’s how some of the key numbers break down:
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Quarterback Taylor Heinicke has a base cap hit of $2.5 million, with incentives that could push it up to $6.5 million.
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Nose tackle Naquan Jones will carry a $1.81 million cap hit.
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Offensive tackle Mekhi Becton will count for $7.32 million against the cap.
With these numbers factored in, the Chargers currently have $30.87 million in available cap space, according to OverTheCap. However, this figure does not account for incoming draft picks or a budget for in-season signings. Realistically, their usable cap space is estimated to be between $20-22 million.
Given this remaining flexibility, the Chargers may still pursue additional bargain signings before or after the draft, just as they did effectively in 2024.
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