NFL
Why did NFL punished Derwin James Jr. with a one-game suspension?
The Los Angeles Chargers safety was suspended one game without pay for repeated violations of rules protecting player health and safety.
The NFL is serious about protecting the health of its players. NFL Network reported that the team has suspended Derwin James Jr. of the Los Angeles Chargers for one game without pay for repeated violations of rules protecting player health and safety.
NFL executive Jon Runyan said the suspension came after a hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth during the third quarter of a Week 3 game in the 2024 NFL season. James Jr. hit the Pittsburgh player by using his helmet as a tool.
“Continued disregard for NFL playing rules will not be tolerated. Penalties are warranted when players repeatedly violate rules intended to protect player safety, particularly when the violations carry a significant risk of injury to an opposing player,” Runyan said.
Last year, the Chargers defender was fined twice for hitting defenseless players. On Sept. 22, he was fined $21,000 for a violent hit on Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. The largest fine was $43,000 for hitting Josh Reynolds in the head.
Derwin James Jr. appealed the suspension
According to NFL Network, James was unsatisfied with the NFL’s decision and appealed the penalty.
The NFL commission responsible for appeals confirmed and upheld the decision, so the Chargers’ safety will miss the game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4 of the 2024 season.
Derwin James Jr. plays his sixth season for the Chargers. He has 338 solo tackles, 180 assists, 12.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, and 8 interceptions. He has also been selected to play in three Pro Bowls.