Los Angeles Chargers defensive back Derwin James has been suspended for one game without pay due to multiple violations of health and safety protocols, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The suspension follows James’ third-quarter hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth during Pittsburgh’s recent victory. A source informed NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport that James plans to appeal the suspension.
“Your continued disregard for NFL playing rules will not be tolerated,” stated Jon Runyan, the NFL vice president of football operations, in a letter to James.
Here's an end zone view of the hit that Derwin James put on #Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth, resulting in a suspension from the league pic.twitter.com/STaWIxGtnu
— Rob Gregson (@NFL_Rob) September 23, 2024
James is a key player for the Chargers’ defense, having accumulated 21 tackles (two for loss) and one sack in the 2024 season. Since being drafted in the first round in 2018, he has been penalized 22 times and fined on multiple occasions for late hits.
In the game against Pittsburgh, James received flags for face mask and unnecessary roughness penalties.
His suspension adds to the challenges for the Chargers as they prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. The team will also be without starting offensive tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, both of whom are nursing injuries. Additionally, quarterback Justin Herbert’s availability is uncertain after he aggravated a high ankle sprain in Week 3.
Los Angeles will have a bye in Week 5.
