The Los Angeles Chargers took their first loss of the 2024 season this week against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team suffered major injuries in the game, including quarterback Justin Herbert, pass rusher Joey Bosa, and offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. On top of all these injuries, one of Los Angeles’ superstars has been suspended for one game without pay.
Los Angeles Chargers Star Suspended
The league is suspending star safety Derwin James for the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs. James is being punished for repeated violations of game rules intended to protect the safety and health of players.
Suspension: NFL suspended Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. for one game for repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players, including during Sunday’s game vs. Steelers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 23, 2024
James is one of the top safetys in the league, so this will be a huge blow to the Chargers defense. The safety has amounted to 518 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and 8 interceptions in his career, becoming Los Angeles’ top defender.
Derwin James Impact
James is specifically being punished for a hit he had in the game against the Steelers, when he tackled tight end Pat Freiermuth in the open field leading with his head to make the stop. James has announced that he will appeal this decision by the NFL.
With the Chiefs coming into this game 3-0, it will be difficult for the Chargers to try and stop their high-powered offense without their best defender, along with all of the injuries the team suffered against Pittsburgh.
Do you think James should be suspended, or is the league being too harsh?
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