Report: Chargers to sign Linsley to record 5-year, $62.5M contract
The Los Angeles Chargers believe they found their next franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, and they're hoping to ensure he receives elite protection.
The Chargers are expected to sign former Green Bay Packers All-Pro offensive lineman Corey Linsley to a five-year, $62.5-million contract, making him the highest-paid center in NFL history, sources told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
The 29-year-old was arguably the top interior offensive lineman available on the open market. He allowed just four pressures on 437 pass-protection snaps in 2020, according to PFF.
Linsley's started 99 games since the Packers drafted him in the fifth round in 2014 out of Ohio State. He'll be the Chargers' third new starting center in as many seasons.
worst to first for Justin Herbert:
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) March 15, 2021
Chargers 2020 C Dan Feeney allowed the MOST hurries (24) and pressures (33) of any center last year
new C Corey Linsley allowed the FEWEST hurries (1) and pressures (4) of any center last year (min 700 snaps)
also...zero penalties for Linsley https://t.co/3bCpd33Kyz
Los Angeles allowed 34 sacks last season, ranking 16th in the league. Additionally, the team's 3.8 yards per rushing attempt was the NFL's third-worst mark.
The Chargers also agreed to a new three-year deal with cornerback Michael Davis, a source told Garafolo.
Davis, 26, has started 35 games for Los Angeles since 2018, and he posted a career-high 14 pass breakups with three picks in 2020.