Chargers Place Denzel Perryman on Injured Reserve with Ankle Injury

The Los Angeles Chargers have placed linebacker Denzel Perryman on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, as confirmed by a source to ESPN on Monday. This decision means Perryman will be sidelined for at least the next four games, following an injury sustained during the Chargers’ Week 1 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs. Perryman did not participate in any practices leading up to the upcoming matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday night.

In the absence of Perryman, linebacker Troy Dye is expected to step into a starting role. Dye, who is in his sixth NFL season, has not been a full-time starter previously but has accumulated 13 career starts. In the season opener against Kansas City, he played 40 defensive snaps, recorded four tackles, and made significant hits on quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Known for his energetic presence in practice, Dye is regarded as one of the hardest hitters on the team.

Perryman is in his second stint with the Chargers after rejoining the team before the 2024 season. Last season, he started 11 games but missed time due to various injuries. His current absence opens opportunities not only for Dye but also for other players in a competitive inside linebackers group that includes rookie Marlowe Wax and Del’Shawn Phillips. Phillips is currently listed as questionable for Monday’s game due to a toe injury.

The Chargers will need to adapt quickly as they prepare to face the Raiders without one of their key defensive players. The team will look to maintain their momentum after a strong start to the season, but the loss of Perryman could prove significant as they navigate the upcoming weeks.