Justin Herbert, Chargers agree to five-year, $262.5 million extension

Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers have agreed to a massive long-term extension that will make him the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL by average salary.

In the deal, Herbert will earn $262.5 million over five years, which just slightly surpasses Lamar Jackson‘s and Jalen Hurts‘ extensions earlier in the offseason. The contract also includes $218.7 million in guarantees.

Taken sixth overall by the Chargers in 2020, Herbert has starred for the franchise, starting 49 of a possible 50 games and throwing for 14,089 yards, 94 touchdowns and only 35 interceptions. Herbert also has rushed for 683 yards and six TDs in his three seasons.

He had two years remaining on his rookie contract, which was scheduled to pay him roughly $8.5 million this season and $29.5 million on his fifth-year option contract in 2024.

A ripple effect impact could happen on the back of the deal, with a new contract for the Bengals‘ QB Joe Burrow now expected. And it wouldn’t be stunning if Burrow surpassed Herbert’s financial numbers if and when he and his team can come together on their own deal.

More to follow.