UPDATE: The Los Angeles Chargers are facing a significant setback as linebacker Denzel Perryman’s two-game suspension has been upheld by the NFL, leaving the team to adjust their lineup for critical matchups against the Houston Texans on Saturday and the Denver Broncos on either January 3 or 4. This news breaks just days before the Chargers’ playoff push, making the timing urgent.
Perryman’s suspension stems from “repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect player safety,” with the incident in question involving a helmet-to-helmet hit on the Cowboys’ Ryan Flournoy during last Sunday’s game. Despite being penalized for unnecessary roughness, he was not ejected from the game, which the Chargers won 34-17. This decision follows a similar disciplinary action against safety Tony Jefferson, who was ejected for a comparable infraction earlier this month.
With Perryman sidelined until January 5, 2024, the Chargers are turning to Troy Dye as his likely replacement. Dye has been a reliable depth player this season and is currently the team’s third-leading tackler with 50 tackles. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter expressed confidence in Dye’s abilities, stating, “We’ve won a lot of games… when Troy’s been our linebacker. I feel good about the guys we have out there ready to roll.”
Additionally, Del’Shawn Phillips, known for his contributions on special teams, may also step into the linebacker role, especially given his impressive performance this season. Minter noted Phillips’ physical style of play and expressed excitement for his potential opportunity on the field.
The Chargers’ preparations for the upcoming games took an unusual turn as they practice at SoFi Stadium today to avoid adverse weather conditions affecting their usual training facility in El Segundo. “It was fun,” said safety Derwin James Jr., reflecting on the experience. “That was fun today, being able to go out and go to the stadium and still execute.”
In terms of injuries, several players, including wide receiver Derius Davis (ankle) and safety RJ Mickens (shoulder), sat out of practice. Meanwhile, others like guard Mekhi Becton (knee) and linebacker Bud Dupree (back) were limited participants.
As the Chargers gear up for these crucial games, their immediate focus will be on ensuring a strong defensive performance without Perryman, who has been a key player for the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this adjustment impacts the Chargers’ playoff aspirations.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
