UPDATE: The NFL has upheld Denzel Perryman’s two-game suspension, forcing him to miss critical matchups for the Los Angeles Chargers against the Houston Texans on January 3 and the Denver Broncos on January 4. This urgent development means the Chargers will rely on linebacker Troy Dye to fill the gap in Perryman’s absence.
The league suspended Perryman for multiple violations of rules designed to protect player safety, particularly for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Cowboys’ player Ryan Flournoy during last week’s game. Although he was penalized for unnecessary roughness, he remained in the game, which ended in a 34-17 victory for the Chargers.
Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter expressed confidence in Dye stepping up. “We’ve won a lot of games when Troy’s been our linebacker,” Minter stated. “I have great confidence in Troy and those linebackers. We’re ready to move forward to the challenge.”
Dye, who has emerged as a key depth player this season, is currently the Chargers’ third-leading tackler with 50 tackles. He previously filled in for Perryman when he was sidelined for five games due to a hamstring injury earlier in the season.
Additionally, linebacker Del’Shawn Phillips, a standout on special teams with a team-leading 23 special teams tackles, is also a potential candidate to support the defense during Perryman’s suspension. Minter highlighted Phillips’ physical play and expressed excitement about his possible involvement. “I feel good about the guys we have ready to roll,” he noted.
In a surprising twist, the Chargers conducted practice at SoFi Stadium on Wednesday, avoiding the rainy weather from an incoming atmospheric river. “It felt good to go out to the stadium and execute,” said safety Derwin James Jr.. This change not only kept players dry but allowed them to familiarize themselves with their game-day environment.
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) missed practice. Meanwhile, guard Mekhi Becton (knee), outside linebacker Bud Dupree (back), and defensive lineman Teair Tart (groin) were limited participants.
The Chargers are gearing up for a crucial end to the regular season, with playoffs on the line. Fans will eagerly watch as Troy Dye and the team navigate these challenges in the coming days.
