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Philip Rivers happy to finish as a Charger, in San Diego or L.A.

By The Sports Xchange
San Diego Chargers QB Phillip Rivers (17). UPI/Terry Schmitt
San Diego Chargers QB Phillip Rivers (17). UPI/Terry Schmitt | License Photo

San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers is looking forward to finishing his career as a Charger -- even if it might not be in San Diego.

"At the end of the day, that was what was most important," Rivers said Monday after signing the four-year, $84 million contract extension that should keep him with the team thorugh 2019. "Me and my family are extremely grateful for the opportunity and commitment. To spend my whole career in one place is very special."

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Earlier this offseason, Rivers had been noncommital about resigning due to the uncertainty of the team's future.

Last week, NFL owners met to discuss possible moves by the Chargers, Oakland Raiders and St. Louis Rams to Los Angeles. Chargers owner Dean Spanos and Raiders owner Mark Davis are working on a shared stadium in Carson, Calif.

"My hesitation, my lack of excitement for a potential move was more about the thought of leaving this community than it was about a disdain for Los Angeles," Rivers said Monday. "It's still out of our control, and nobody knows.

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"You can't predict the location. But (you can know) that you're going to be a Charger."

Rivers' deal includes a rare no-trade clause, which is in effect for all five years remaining on his contract.

According to a breakdown reported by Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports, Rivers will receive a $22.5 million signing bonus and $15 million fully guaranteed this year.

His $16.5 million salary for 2016 is guaranteed for injury now and will become fully promised on the second day of the 2016 league year.

His other salaries are $14 million (2017), $10 million (2018) and $11 million (2019). He has $5 million roster bonuses in 2018 and 2019.

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