Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James has been suspended for one game without pay by the NFL due to repeated violations of health and safety rules for players.
James has received five unnecessary roughness penalties in his last 18 games, which is the highest number for any defensive player in the league. All five penalties involved hits to opponents’ heads using his shoulder or helmet.
Jon Runyan, the league’s vice president of football operations, mentioned the rule against lowering the head and making contact with the helmet. He pointed to James’ hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth during the third quarter of Sunday’s 20-10 loss as the final incident.
James lowered his head and hit Freiermuth, resulting in a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness. He had a clear path to Freiermuth and could have changed how he made the tackle.
“Your continued disregard for NFL playing rules will not be tolerated,” Runyan wrote in a letter to James. “Substantial penalties are warranted when players repeatedly violate rules designed to protect player safety, especially when these violations pose a significant risk of injury to others.”
After the game, James stated he didn’t ask the referee for clarification on the penalty.
“I’m not here to referee; I’m playing fast and not thinking about a flag,” he said. “I’ll review the film and see if I get fined. I don’t feel like I hit him in the head or neck.”
The Chargers (2-1) are set to host Kansas City on Sunday. James has the option to appeal the suspension, which will be reviewed by a hearing officer chosen by both the league and the players’ union. The appeal is expected to be heard either Tuesday or Wednesday, with a quick decision.
Earlier on Monday, Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said he wasn’t worried about James being overly aggressive.
“Keep Derwin doing Derwin,” Harbaugh said. “He has found that sweet spot of playing aggressively while staying within the rules. That is what I have noticed.”
