With the Los Angeles Chargers in the thick of the AFC playoff race, the team now plays its final two games of the regular season without key players on defense. Linebacker Denzel Perryman has been suspended two games for “repeated violations of game rules designed to protect the health and safety of players,” the league announced.
Perriman’s suspension comes a day after he received an unnecessary roughness penalty for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Flournoy. After catching the ball, Flournoy found himself sitting on the ground. As Flournoy tried to get up, Perryman came in and struck Flournoy directly in the head.
Flournoy was forced to withdraw from the game due to a knee injury. He finished the game with two catches for 18 yards and a touchdown as the Cowboys lost 34-17.
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Perryman has faced fines for helmet collisions several times during his career. In 2023 and 2024, Perryman received $66,666 in fines for “unauthorized use of a helmet.” His previous punishment may have been a factor in the NFL’s decision to suspend Perriman for the final two games of the regular season.
If Perriman’s suspension is upheld, he will be eligible to rejoin the Chargers following the team’s Week 18 game against the Denver Broncos on Jan. 5.
Perryman, however, can appeal the decision. If he appeals, Perriman’s case will be reviewed by a league hearing officer, who will then determine whether Perriman’s suspension is sufficient or should be reduced.
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The Chargers will face the Houston Texans in Week 17 and then the AFC West-leading Broncos in Week 18. Denver is one of two AFC teams that has clinched a playoff spot. Like the Chargers, the Texans are fighting for a playoff spot in the final two weeks or regular season.
This story will be updated.
