Denzel Perryman, linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, is fighting over an ankle injury. All of which raises serious doubt over his availability for next weekend’s key Division I games. Even so, Coach Jim Harbaugh said he wasn’t sure when Perryman would be back. In unequivocal terms he replied, “That, I don’t know. Timeline of it, I don’t know.”
After Perryman mysteriously exited early in the first quarter, this Chargers’ defense started to bend and later break against the Chiefs in the Chargers’ fairytale ending 27-21 victory. He lasted only eight snaps himself, as he was soon replaced by Troy Dye. Troy showed his mettle and capped the game during Perryman’s absence.
A perfect illustration of the type of play Troy Dye makes at a high level. He played all 40 of the defense’s defensive snaps and came down with four tackles. Most notably, he provided two major blows on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This demonstrated his potential as a game-wrecking force on the defensive side of the ball.
From Dye’s first days on campus he’s been hailed for being one of the most high-octane players in practice. He is well known for his hard-hitting style. Even though he has never been a full-time starter in his six seasons with the team, he has carved out quite the legacy. Over his four-year career, he has made just 13 starts. Last season, he played in just eleven games, but barely made it through the season due to constant injuries.
With Perryman’s status unknown, Dye’s play this fall may earn him a greater chance to help out with an expanded role. Undrafted rookie Marlowe Wax and Del’Shawn Phillips round out the inside linebacker group. With their collective presence, they offer important depth while the team tries to figure out this injury crisis.
Perryman was with the Chargers for the second time, after returning to the organization before the 2024 campaign. His leadership and experience are going to be crucial assets for the Chargers’ defense. Should he miss additional time due to this injury, the team will rely heavily on Dye and the other inside linebackers to fill the gap.
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