UPDATE: In a significant blow to the Los Angeles Chargers, the NFL has upheld linebacker Denzel Perryman‘s two-game suspension, confirming he will miss crucial matchups against the Houston Texans this Saturday at SoFi Stadium and either January 3 or 4 against the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium. This development comes just days before the Chargers head into the final stretch of the regular season.
The league’s decision to suspend Perryman was based on “repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players,” following a helmet-to-helmet hit on the Cowboys’ Ryan Flournoy during last Sunday’s game. While Perryman was penalized for unnecessary roughness, he was not ejected from the game, which saw the Chargers secure a 34-17 victory.
With Perryman sidelined, the Chargers are turning to Troy Dye as his likely replacement. Dye has stepped up in previous games, showcasing his capability as a reliable depth player, and is currently the team’s third-leading tackler with 50 tackles. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter expressed confidence in Dye, stating, “We’ve won a lot of games the last couple of years in key sequences when Troy’s been our linebacker.”
The team’s defensive strategy will also consider Del’Shawn Phillips, who has excelled on special teams, potentially stepping in to bolster the linebacker rotation. Minter highlighted Phillips’ physicality and tackling skills, suggesting he may get an opportunity during Perryman’s absence.
As the Chargers prepare for this weekend’s game, they faced unexpected weather challenges during practice, relocating to SoFi Stadium due to a severe downpour. This move allowed the team to avoid muddy conditions at their El Segundo facility, keeping their preparation on track.
Injury updates reveal that 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) sat out practice, raising concerns about their availability for the upcoming games. Meanwhile, guard Mekhi Becton (knee), outside linebacker Bud Dupree (back), and defensive lineman Teair Tart (groin) were limited participants.
As the Chargers gear up for their final games, the absence of Perryman will undoubtedly test the team’s resilience and depth. Fans are eager to see how Dye and Phillips will step up to fill this crucial role as the playoffs loom on the horizon. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
