Andre James is headed to Chargers
The Las Vegas Raiders have cut two 2024 Week 1 starters and they have both landed in the AFC West.
Tuesday afternoon, the Los Angeles Chargers announced they have signed center Andre James. Last week, the Kansas City Chiefs signed quarterback Gardner Minshew. Since they were released, neither James nor Minshew will eb part of the Raiders’ 2026 comp draft pick formula.
The Raiders released James on March 7. Just before free agency began last year, the Raiders James a three year, $24 million contract. In the end, it was not a surprise that James was released. He was injured last year and then lost his starting job to rookie Jackson Powers-Johnson.
James’ release saved the Raiders $1.49 million in cap room.
James, who signed with the Raiders in 2019 as an undrafted free agent, took over as the Raiders’ starting center, replacing standout Rodney Hudson, in 2021. James started 59 games in the past four seasons.
James, was hurt last year and now Jackson-Powers, a second-round pick last season, takes over. James will likely be a key backup for the Chargers.