DeAndre Carter Didn’t Sign For Peanuts, But Few Los Angeles Chargers Provide More Value

The Los Angeles Chargers’ DeAndre Carter is shattering the business notion that one gets what it pays for.

Carter started the season as L.A.’s returner, handling punts and kickoffs, after signing a one-year, $1.135 million deal. Then the wave of injuries wrecked the Bolts’ wide-receivers unit, so Carter started adding his two cents there, too.

“I just try to take advantage of the opportunities when they come my way,’’ Carter said.

The Chargers had their way with the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, escaping with a nail-biting, 25-24 win thanks to quarterback Justin Herbert’s late-game heroics.

Herbert’s task of acquiring a touchdown and a two-point conversion in the closing minute was complemented by Carter’s 20-yard punt return that got the Chargers in Arizona territory.

Earlier Carter had contributed a 33-yard scoring reception.

“He plays a lot of different positions,’’ coach Brandon Staley said. “He has just made a lot of winning plays for us the entire season and he has been there for us in the clutch.’’

Carter’s big chance came when his more expensive teammates went down with various ailments. That included wide receiver Keenan Allen, whose $19.2 million charge against the salary cap is the highest among L.A.’s active players.

Next on that list is yet another pass-catcher in Mike Williams. He counts $14 million against the cap and has also battled ailments.

With both missing time, the 5-foot-8, 188-pound Carter jumped at the chance to replace their production, at a fraction of the cost. His cap hit, which matches his brief contract, absorbs just 0.53 share of the Chargers’ total.

“He’s been an invaluable player for us,’’ Staley said.

Carter’s nearly 11-yard punt-return average would establish a career-high for him. Plus the five-year pro set a career-high with seven receptions for 73 yards, with a score, in beating the Cardinals.

The undrafted product of Sacramento State had never reached the receiving numbers he’s established this year with 38 catches for 452 yards. His three touchdowns, with a month of football remaining, matches his best showing.

“When Justin is looking for me, I make sure that I try to make those plays,’’ Carter said.

The resilient Chargers (6-5) play on as they try to stay relevant in the AFC playoff race. They’ll likely need to win at least four of their remaining six games and it won’t be easy, starting on Sunday against the host Las Vegas Raiders (4-7).

L.A. has already hit a jackpot with the affordable, and versatile, Carter.