The Los Angeles Chargers signed veteran safety to their 53-man roster on Thursday, elevating him from the practice squad. With Derwin James serving a one-game suspension in Week 4, the Chargers are expected to rotate safeties including Alohi Gilman, Elijah Molden, AJ Finley, and Jefferson on Sunday. The absence of James is a significant loss as the Chargers face the Kansas City Chiefs, a top competitor in the AFC West.
The team is also dealing with injuries, making the availability of key starters, like quarterback Justin Herbert, a game-time decision. Jefferson, with his veteran experience, is expected to step up in this crucial situation. He had a remarkable preseason performance against the Dallas Cowboys, which was considered one of the best defensive showings of that period. His final stats included 14 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, a sack, two passes defended, and a quarterback hit.
Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh praised Jefferson’s performance, saying, “That was a sensational game… I’ve always had great respect for him.” Jefferson is the longest-tenured NFL player in the Chargers’ safety group, bringing a decade of experience.
Throughout his career, he has played for four teams, starting as an undrafted free agent in 2013 with the Arizona Cardinals. He spent four years with the Cardinals before joining the Baltimore Ravens for another four seasons, where he played under John Harbaugh and coordinated with Greg Roman. His relationship with the Chargers also includes familiarity with general manager Joe Hortiz, as they both worked in the Ravens organization. Jefferson’s return to Los Angeles marks a homecoming, as he is a native of Southern California.
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