When Rashawn Slater signed his massive four-year, $114 million extension with the Los Angeles Chargers, it should have been pure celebration. The 26-year-old left tackle had just become the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history. Instead, one reporter’s poorly-timed comment about Slater’s recent divorce sparked an unexpected controversy that overshadowed the achievement.
How Did One Reporter Turn Rashawn Slater’s Big Day Into a Controversy?
The Chargers continue their rebuilding plan to become a powerhouse in the AFC, and locking in Slater represents a major step in that direction. His new deal, averaging $28.5 million per year, secures a premier talent for the foreseeable future as Los Angeles reshapes their offense around franchise quarterback Justin Herbert.
However, the media focus quickly shifted away from the team’s accomplishment. Reporter Dov Kleiman pointed out that Slater had recently divorced his ex-wife shortly before signing his life-changing deal (Kleiman misquoted the contract amount as $144 million), suggesting the timing was notable and implying she had narrowly missed out on the financial windfall.
The comment was poorly received online, with many calling the timing inappropriate and criticizing the decision to shift the narrative away from Slater’s achievement. But Slater’s ex-wife didn’t stay silent about being dragged into the story.
Life as a professional NFL player is defined by key milestones: getting drafted, winning a championship, and perhaps the most financially life-changing of all, signing that first major contract. For Slater, that moment came as he entered his fifth year in the league.
Stassney Brown took to X to express her disapproval of being included in the narrative around her ex-husband’s contract.
This is deplorable. I hold nothing but support for Rashawn. His contract is not about me. I think we should focus on what’s most important here, and that is his career and his success. Please stop including me in this narrative. He deserves his moment. https://t.co/to8qdKQGYl
— Stassney Brown (@stassneynicole) July 28, 2025
“This is deplorable. I hold nothing but support for Rashawn. His contract is not about me. I think we should focus on what’s most important here, and that is his career and his success. Please stop including me in this narrative. He deserves his moment,” Brown wrote.
Her statement showed remarkable maturity, framing the situation not as a missed opportunity but as a moment that belongs entirely to Slater. The response effectively shut down the inappropriate speculation while maintaining her dignity throughout the ordeal.
What Does This Extension Mean for the Chargers’ Future?
Controversy aside, all eyes now turn to Slater’s future in the league. At just 26 years old, the Chargers have secured their franchise left tackle during his prime years. With a franchise quarterback already in place, the team is laying the groundwork for a stronger run game and better pass protection.
Looks like that contract may have healed whatever undisclosed injury Rashawn Slater was working through. First time he’s been in uniform at practice since July 18 pic.twitter.com/HtX7LzNk75
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) July 28, 2025
Slater has sometimes battled injuries, missing two games last season and nearly all of 2022, when he played just three contests. Still, he made the Pro Bowl as both a rookie and again last year, solidifying his place as one of the most dependable left tackles in football.
That dependability is something every quarterback relies on, and Herbert clearly appreciates having his blindside protected. The quarterback celebrated the news on Instagram, posting “LFG!!” in reaction to the extension, a fitting response from a player thrilled to have his protection locked down for years to come.
