Chargers Did Revise Deal With Williams, Agent Says

The agent for Lee Williams revealed Thursday that the Chargers tore up the defensive lineman’s 1990 contract during the season, redid it, and extended it two years.

“We’re real pleased with what transpired,” said Williams’ agent, Mike Merkow. “Lee also has been told by the Chargers he will be moved back outside to defensive end.”

General Manager Bobby Beathard confirmed that adjustments were made to Williams’ 1990 contract in exchange for a two-year extension.

“He hasn’t been promised anything,” Beathard said. “We’re going to do what is best for the team.”

Last summer Beathard said the team would not renegotiate Williams’ contract, thereby prompting Williams to walk out of training camp.

Williams returned to avoid the possibility of suspension. But he was advised again by Beathard that his contract would not be redone.

However, shortly after the halfway mark last season, it was learned that Williams signed a new deal. He also signed a non-disclosure statement that prevented him from letting anyone know about the deal.

Beathard downplayed the significance of Williams’ redone 1990 contract. He said he considered making changes in the contract prior to Williams’ departure from camp. But when Williams left, he said that ended further discussion.

At that time, Williams was represented by Steve Feldman, who already was at odds with Beathard in talks to sign Junior Seau. Williams fired Feldman, and with the passing of time, Beathard and Merkow met.

“It wasn’t done because we were pressured,” Beathard said. “And it was not done because it was somebody other than Feldman. We did it because we felt it was fair.”