BREAKING: The Los Angeles Chargers have confirmed that linebacker Denzel Perryman‘s appeal for a two-game suspension by the NFL has been denied. This development means Perryman will be sidelined for crucial matchups against the Houston Texans on December 30, 2023, and the Denver Broncos on either January 3 or 4.
In Perryman’s absence, the Chargers are likely to turn to Troy Dye, who has shown significant depth throughout the season. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter expressed confidence in Dye and the linebacker group, stating, “The focus suddenly shifts to who do we have? How are we going to make it work?” Minter highlighted Dye’s previous performance, noting, “We’ve won a lot of games in key sequences when Troy’s been our linebacker.”
The NFL suspended Perryman due to “repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players,” following a helmet-to-helmet hit on Ryan Flournoy of the Dallas Cowboys. Despite being penalized for unnecessary roughness during the Chargers’ 34-17 victory, he was not ejected from the game. This suspension comes just a week after safety Tony Jefferson faced a similar fate.
Dye, currently the Chargers’ third-leading tackler with 50 tackles, previously filled in for Perryman during his five-game absence due to a hamstring injury sustained during the season opener in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Minter also mentioned Del’Shawn Phillips as a potential contributor, particularly due to his strong performance on special teams.
“They’re ready to roll,” Minter stated regarding the team’s linebacker depth, emphasizing the physicality and tackling of Phillips.
In a related note, the Chargers adapted their practice schedule due to severe weather, moving to SoFi Stadium amid a heavy downpour. This adjustment allowed the team to stay dry and maintain focus ahead of their upcoming game. Safety Derwin James Jr. described the experience as “fun,” highlighting the importance of practicing in their game environment.
Meanwhile, the team is facing injury challenges, with wide receiver Derius Davis (ankle), safety RJ Mickens (shoulder), offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer (hamstring), safety Benjamin St-Juste (shoulder), and running back Kimani Vidal (neck) missing practice. Additionally, guard Mekhi Becton (knee), outside linebacker Bud Dupree (back), and defensive lineman Teair Tart (groin) were limited participants.
As the Chargers prepare for their decisive encounters, the focus remains on adapting to the loss of Perryman and ensuring the team is ready for the postseason. Fans are eagerly watching how this situation will unfold as the Chargers aim to solidify their playoff positioning.
