Chargers Sign Former Commanders Cornerback Benjamin St-Juste

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers have signed cornerback Benjamin St-Juste to a one-year deal, as confirmed by his agent, Mike McCartney. St-Juste, 27, is transitioning from the Washington Commanders after spending four seasons with the team.

St-Juste was a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and completed his rookie contract with the Commanders before moving to the Chargers. Last season, he appeared in all 17 games, starting 14, and accumulated 71 total tackles, seven passes defensed, and one forced fumble.

On the field for 77 percent of the team’s defensive snaps and 14 percent of special teams plays, St-Juste’s contributions were notable despite mixed performance ratings. Pro Football Focus ranked him among the bottom five cornerbacks for the season, while Pro-Football-Reference reported he allowed four touchdowns as the closest defender, raising concerns over his coverage effectiveness.

The Commanders adjusted St-Juste’s role significantly last year, moving him primarily to the perimeter after he spent much of his earlier career covering slot receivers. This shift did not yield expected results, leading to limited playoff appearances, as he was benched in Week 16.

While St-Juste’s move to the Chargers comes on the heels of the team’s loss of standout cornerback and 2024 starter J.C. Jackson to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Chargers are hopeful that he can regain his form. The team has also brought in offseason trade acquisition, and with Jones entering free agency after ten seasons with the Patriots, the Chargers are looking to solidify their secondary.

“We believe Benjamin has the potential to thrive in our system,” said a spokesperson for the Chargers. “He brings a unique skill set that offers versatility in defense.”

As St-Juste embarks on this new chapter with the Chargers, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts and performs in a fresh environment.