The NFL hit Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman with a hefty fine of $66,666 for unnecessary roughness during a play in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
More News: Key Patriots Defender Out for AFC East Clash with Dolphins
This fine marks the highest penalty in the 2024 season so far. The incident involved Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt, who was struck by Perryman after running up the middle. The linebacker made a head-first tackle aimed directly at Hunt’s helmet. Interestingly, no penalty was called during the game, suggesting either the refs missed the infraction or deemed it unnecessary to throw a flag.
Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
Nonetheless, the NFL’s review painted a different picture, leading to significant disciplinary action against Perryman.
In the Chargers’ recent 17-10 defeat to Kansas City, Perryman recorded eight tackles while participating in 71% of defensive plays. His aggressive hit contributed to him being classified as a repeat offender, mirroring the situation with teammate Derwin James, who was suspended the prior week.
Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh stood up for James, highlighting his integrity as a player and leader. “He is a shining star in every way,” Harbaugh stated, emphasizing that James plays with the intent to compete fairly and safely under NFL guidelines.
Expect Harbaugh to defend Perryman similarly. The Chargers are heading into a bye week, but they’ll face the Denver Broncos in Week 6 without one of their top defensive assets.
With two players from the same team suspended in consecutive weeks, it’s clear the NFL is tightening its reins on the Chargers’ defensive tactics.
Perryman returned to Los Angeles this offseason after initially being drafted by the Chargers in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft. So far this season, he has tallied 30 tackles, with 22 being solo, and has registered one sack.