Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman will miss the final two regular-season games after the NFL upheld his two-game suspension. The suspension follows Perryman’s violation of health and safety rules during a game against the Dallas Cowboys, where he delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit on player Ryan Flournoy. As a result, he will be sidelined for the upcoming match against the Houston Texans on December 30 and the game against the Denver Broncos on January 3 or 4, 2024.
In Perryman’s absence, Troy Dye is expected to step into the starting linebacker role. Dye has been a valuable depth player this season and previously filled in for Perryman when he was out with a hamstring injury. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter expressed confidence in Dye’s abilities, noting that the Chargers have secured victories with him on the field in crucial situations.
Dye currently ranks as the Chargers’ third-leading tackler with 50 tackles, while Perryman has 47 tackles this season. Minter remarked on Dye’s past performances, stating, “We’ve won a lot of games the last couple of years in key sequences when Troy’s been our linebacker. There was a stretch there where he played really well and won some key games.”
The league’s decision to suspend Perryman came after he was penalized for unnecessary roughness during the Chargers’ 34-17 victory against the Cowboys. This incident occurred shortly after safety Tony Jefferson was ejected for a similar violation in a match against the Kansas City Chiefs. Minter acknowledged the impact of the suspension, saying, “It’s what the league decided. The focus suddenly shifts to who do we have? How are we going to make it work?”
In addition to Dye, Del’Shawn Phillips may also see increased playing time. Phillips has been a standout contributor on special teams, leading the team with 23 tackles in that area. Minter expressed enthusiasm about Phillips potentially joining the linebacker rotation, highlighting his physical play and tackling ability.
Team Practice Adaptations
The Chargers recently adjusted their practice schedule due to adverse weather conditions. They held a practice session at SoFi Stadium to avoid the heavy rainfall impacting their usual training facility in El Segundo. This decision kept the players dry and allowed them to familiarize themselves with the stadium environment ahead of their upcoming game.
Safety Derwin James Jr. shared his positive experience from the practice, stating, “It was fun today, being able to go out and go to the stadium and still execute. That’s where we’re going to be playing on Saturday.” The artificial turf at SoFi Stadium remained relatively dry, enabling the team to prepare effectively.
Injury Updates
As the Chargers prepare for their pivotal games, several players are dealing with injuries. 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) were unable to participate in practice. Additionally, guard Mekhi Becton (knee), outside linebacker Bud Dupree (back), and defensive lineman Teair Tart (groin) were limited participants.
As the Chargers look to secure their playoff position, the impact of Perryman’s suspension and the team’s adaptability will be crucial in the coming weeks. With key players stepping up, the Chargers aim to maintain their momentum as they head into the final stretch of the season.
