The Los Angeles Chargers opened the 2025 season in historic fashion, snapping a seven-game losing streak to the Kansas City Chiefs with a 27–21 win in São Paulo, Brazil. But that landmark victory came at a cost.
Veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman, who returned to the Chargers this offseason, was forced out of the game after just eight snaps. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Perryman suffered a high-ankle sprain, an injury that typically requires four to six weeks of recovery. He is considered week-to-week, but his absence could stretch into October.
“#Chargers veteran LB Denzel Perryman, who was knocked out of the win in Brazil over the #Chiefs, was diagnosed with a high-ankle sprain, source says,” Rapoport posted. “Perryman is considered week-to-week and he will miss some time. Generally, high-ankle sprains can take 4–6 weeks to heal.”
A Veteran Setback
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The injury is especially frustrating given Perryman’s recent history. Last season, he missed six games with a groin issue, and in Week 10 against Denver, he lasted just one tackle before exiting. At 32, Perryman remains one of the most respected voices in the locker room and was brought back to steady a defense that lost 2024 third-round pick Junior Colson for the season with a pre-camp injury.
Despite his durability concerns, Perryman was productive when healthy. He tallied 55 tackles in 2024 during his first year back with the Bolts, and over his career has developed a reputation as a physical run-stuffer with Pro Bowl pedigree. His best season came in 2021 with the Raiders, when he recorded a career-high 154 tackles and helped anchor a playoff defense.
Chargers’ Depth Tested
Without Perryman, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter will have to rely more heavily on young linebacker Daiyan Henley, who flashed last season, and depth piece Troy Dye. The Chargers had already placed Colson, long snapper Josh Harris, and cornerback Deane Leonard on injured reserve before Week 1, thinning the roster further.
The absence of Perryman is particularly concerning against AFC West rivals known for their ground games. His ability to diagnose runs and plug gaps is difficult to replicate, and the Chargers may need to shuffle alignments to compensate.
A Cloud Over a Signature Win
Friday’s victory in Brazil was otherwise one of the Chargers’ most complete showings in years. Justin Herbert threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, while receivers Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston each found the end zone. For fans, it was a cathartic moment: a convincing win against a long-time nemesis on an international stage.
But the celebration was muted by Perryman’s exit. His presence is felt not only on the field but also in the locker room, where his leadership has helped set the tone for a team with legitimate playoff aspirations.
As the Chargers prepare to face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2, they do so knowing that their middle linebacker — and emotional heartbeat — may not return until midseason.
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