Improved 2024 Safety Re-Signs with the Chargers

Elijah Molden has inked a new contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. The deal is reported to be a three-year contract for $18.25 million. Molden thrived last year in a strong safety room with the Los Angeles Chargers, cementing himself as a starter. After a career year with the Chargers, Molden will look to build off of it in 2025. 

Molden was traded to the Chargers right after the preseason ended. He was previously with the Tennessee Titans, where he spent three seasons. The former third-round pick showed some flashes with the Titans but was ultimately dealt for a future seventh-round pick. He would reunite with a lot of former Titans like Teair Tart and Bud Dupree on the Bolts. This small price for the Chargers helped them out mightily as Molden was a pleasant surprise for Jim Harbaugh. He was able to ascend as a fun piece for the Chargers’ defense and help turn their defense around from 2023. 

In 15 games, Molden had career highs across the board. Three interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and 75 total tackles is what he ended with. Under Jesse Minter, Molden’s great play allowed star safety Derwin James to play around the box more and on the line of scrimmage. Alohi Gilman and Molden were thriving when the Chargers played cover two and two high safety shells. The Chargers’ defense eclipsed major accomplishments, including being the number one scoring defense and ranked in the top ten in not allowing explosive plays. Molden was a great contributor to their success. 

However, Molden’s career high season was cut short due to a broken fibula. He is expected to be ready for training camp. The Chargers are hoping to get the same or more production from Molden’s 2024 season. If they do, he can elevate their defense to another level.