Denzel Perryman, the veteran linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, will miss the team’s final two regular-season games after his appeal of a two-game suspension was upheld on Tuesday. The suspension was imposed by the NFL for repeated violations of rules designed to protect player health and safety, highlighting ongoing concerns about dangerous hits in the league.
The appeal was heard by Jordy Nelson, a hearing officer jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association, who ruled to maintain the suspension. This decision came after Perryman was flagged for unnecessary roughness in a recent game against the Dallas Cowboys, where he delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit on wide receiver Ryan Flournoy, who was on the ground after a catch. The incident underscored the league’s crackdown on such infractions, which have been a point of emphasis in recent seasons.
Perryman has a history of similar violations, having been suspended in 2023 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Additionally, he has faced fines for illegal hits using his helmet, indicating a pattern of behavior that the NFL is seeking to curb. His latest suspension points to the challenges the league faces in enforcing safety protocols consistently.
For the Chargers, Perryman’s absence comes at a critical juncture. The team has already secured a playoff spot but is vying for the AFC West title, which they haven’t won since 2009. Winning their final two games against the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos would not only clinch the division but also ensure a home playoff game, adding significance to Perryman’s suspension.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh commented on the incident, stating that he believed Perryman was attempting to play over the tackle, but acknowledged the league’s stance on safety. With Perryman out, the Chargers will rely on linebackers like Troy Dye, while Marlowe Wax and Del’Shawn Phillips are expected to see increased playing time. Perryman is particularly valued for his run-defense skills, making his loss a blow to the defensive unit.
The suspension is without pay, and Perryman is eligible to return to the active roster on January 5, following the Chargers’ regular-season finale. This timeline means he could be available for the playoffs, provided the Chargers advance, but his absence in the final two games could impact their seeding and momentum.
In summary, Perryman’s upheld suspension underscores the NFL’s commitment to player safety while posing a tactical challenge for the Chargers as they head into the postseason. The team will need to adapt quickly to maintain their defensive integrity and pursue their championship ambitions without one of their key defenders.
