Donte Jackson Signs Two-Year Deal with Chargers After Steelers Playoff Push

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Veteran cornerback Donte Jackson has signed a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers, solidifying his status with the team after a year in which he contributed to a playoff run with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Jackson, a former second-round pick in 2018, played the previous season in Pittsburgh, where he was acquired in a trade from the Carolina Panthers for wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Despite struggling with performance, Jackson helped the Steelers reach the playoffs, finishing the year with five interceptions and eight passes defended.

The deal, which is reportedly worth $13 million, was negotiated by agent Drew Rosenhaus and marks a fresh start for Jackson as he joins the Chargers for the upcoming season.

Initially drafted by the Panthers, getting Jackson came with high expectations; in his rookie season, he started in all 16 games and finished with four interceptions and nine passes defended. He later earned a three-year contract extension in March 2022 due to his strong performance alongside fellow cornerback Jaycee Horn, forming a formidable duo in Carolina.

Jackson’s 2024 season saw him start 15 games for the Steelers but come with challenges. He ended the season with a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of just 49.4, which ranked as the 110th-best out of 116 eligible players. However, he pointed to the playoff experience as a significant milestone in his career.

“It was a challenge, no doubt,” Jackson said in a statement. “But making the playoffs last season gave me a lot to think about and strive for. I’m happy to be with the Chargers now and am committed to helping this team win.”

Now with the Chargers, Jackson hopes to rejuvenate his career under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, who has a reputation for building strong defensive units. His experience and skills could prove essential as Los Angeles aims for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.

The Chargers concluded last season with a promising roster but fell short in the first round of playoffs. With Jackson joining their ranks, expectations are high for improvement as they gear up for another competitive season in the NFL.