**NFL Suspends Denzel Perryman for Two Games Over Safety Violations**
The NFL has handed down a two-game suspension without pay to Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman due to “repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players.” This decision follows an unnecessary roughness penalty during the Chargers’ recent victory against the Dallas Cowboys.
Perryman was penalized for a hit on Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Flournoy, where he made “forcible contact to the helmet” while Flournoy was already on the ground. The league emphasized that Perryman breached the rule against using any part of the helmet or facemask to strike an opponent’s head or neck area.
At 33 years old, Perryman has a history of disciplinary actions for illegal hits. Earlier this season, he was suspended for three games for improper helmet use and has faced fines multiple times throughout his 11-year career for similar infractions, including roughing the passer.
Reports indicate that Perryman intends to appeal the suspension. The Chargers are currently vying for a playoff spot, with two crucial games remaining. They will face the Houston Texans in Week 17, followed by a matchup against the Denver Broncos in Week 18, who have already secured a playoff berth. Depending on the outcomes of these games, the regular-season finale could determine the division title.
As it stands, if the season concluded today, the Chargers would hold the top wild card position in the AFC at No. 5, which would require them to play their first playoff game on the road. This scenario mirrors last season when they were eliminated by the Texans at NRG Stadium.
This season, Perryman has participated in 10 games for the Chargers, accumulating 47 combined tackles and three passes defended. He has been a key player for the Chargers since being drafted in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft from the University of Miami.
The Chargers’ defense, under the guidance of coordinator Jesse Minter, has performed well this season, ranking third in yards allowed per game (283.1) and eighth in points allowed (20.1).
**FAQ**
**What led to Denzel Perryman’s suspension?**
Denzel Perryman was suspended for two games due to repeated violations of NFL safety rules, specifically for making forcible contact to an opponent’s head while the player was on the ground.
