The NFL announced that Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James would be suspended for one game without pay

Derwin James suspended for ome game following repeated violations of player safety rules.

The NFL has handed down a one-game suspension without pay to Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James, effective immediately, following repeated violations of the league's rules designed to protect player safety. This latest penalty marks James' fifth unnecessary roughness violation in the past 18 games, the highest in the league for any defensive player.

Jon Runyan, the NFL's vice president of football operations, issued the suspension, referencing the league's strict prohibition on lowering the head to initiate contact with the helmet. Over the course of James' last 18 games, his infractions have consistently involved hits to the head of opponents using his shoulder or helmet. The final straw came during Sunday's game, a 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, when James delivered a forceful hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth.

Runyan said in a letter addressed to James. He emphasized the importance of enforcing substantial penalties when player safety rules are violated repeatedly, particularly when there is a high risk of injury involved.

The incident in question occurred during the third quarter, where James, with a clear line to Freiermuth, lowered his head and initiated contact, resulting in a 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty. Runyan highlighted that James had ample opportunity to alter the trajectory of his hit, but he chose not to, furthering his track record of dangerous play. This violation prompted the league to take action.

Runyan continued, adding that such behavior carries significant injury risks for opponents.

James remained defiant after the game, showing little concern for the penalty.

James said. He also added that he hadn't spoken with the referee about the call and was waiting to see if he would receive a fine. he remarked, suggesting that he did not view his actions as outside the rules.

Despite the mounting penalties, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed confidence in James' aggressive style of play, stating earlier Monday that he wasn't concerned about the safety's approach to the game.

James has the option to appeal the suspension, with a hearing likely to take place on either Tuesday or Wednesday. An expedited decision will be made ahead of the Chargers' upcoming matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. Currently, the Chargers stand at 2-1 and will be looking to bounce back from the Pittsburgh loss.

Source: thestar
NFL suspends Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. 1 game for repeated hits to head of opponents