Denzel Perryman Suspended for Two Games Due to Safety Violations

Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman has been suspended for two games without pay by the NFL for "repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players." This decision follows an unnecessary roughness penalty he received during the Chargers' 34-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The incident occurred in the second quarter when Perryman delivered a helmet-to-helmet hit on Cowboys receiver Ryan Flournoy, who was on the ground after making a catch. The NFL cited this action as a violation of Rule 12, Section 2, Article 10(b), which prohibits forcible contact to an opponent's head or neck area.

New York TimesChargers LB Denzel Perryman suspended two games for hit on Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy, repeated violationsESPN

Perryman's suspension is particularly significant as it comes at a critical juncture in the Chargers' season. With a current record of 11-4, the team is vying for a playoff position and will be without one of its key defensive players for the final two regular-season games against the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos. Perryman's absence could impact the Chargers' chances of clinching the AFC West title for the first time since 2009.

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This is not Perryman's first encounter with disciplinary action regarding player safety. In 2023, while playing for the Houston Texans, he was suspended for three games for similar violations, which was later reduced to two games upon appeal. Throughout his career, Perryman has faced multiple fines totaling over $206,500 for infractions related to helmet use and roughing the passer.

Chargers LB Denzel Perryman suspended two games for hit on Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy, repeated violationsCBS SportsNew York Times

Perryman's agent, Ron Butler, confirmed that Perryman plans to appeal the suspension. Chargers head coach John Harbaugh expressed hope that the circumstances surrounding the hit would be considered during the appeal process, noting, "I think Denzel's done a good job... of trying to take the helmet out of his play."

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Despite his appeal, Perryman has faced criticism regarding his playing style. Following the incident, he defended himself on social media, stating, "Never proud of someone calling me a dirty player, never been a dirty player since I started at the age of 6." This reflects a broader debate within the NFL about the balance between aggressive play and player safety.

Chargers LB Denzel Perryman suspended two games for hit on Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy, repeated violations

If the suspension is upheld, Perryman will not be eligible to return to the Chargers' active roster until January 5, the day after their regular-season finale against the Broncos. Should the Chargers secure a playoff berth, Perryman could potentially return for the opening round of the postseason.

New York Times

• “I thought he was trying to go over the tackle and over the ball carrier and hopefully that'll be taken into consideration on appeal,” — John Harbaugh, Head Coach, Los Angeles Chargers

ESPN

• “Never proud of someone calling em a dirty player, never been a dirty player since I start at the age of 6,” — Denzel Perryman, Linebacker, Los Angeles Chargers

Chargers LB Denzel Perryman suspended two games for hit on Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy, repeated violations

This suspension underscores the NFL's ongoing commitment to enforcing player safety rules, particularly as the league navigates the complexities of maintaining competitive play while protecting its athletes.

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