Chargers Linebacker Denzel Perryman Released from Custody, Won’t Face Weapons Charges

Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman found himself embroiled in legal turmoil over the weekend after being arrested on suspicion of a weapons violation. However, the story took a dramatic turn on Monday, when news surfaced that Perryman had been released from custody and would not face charges, after the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office declined to pursue the case. This unexpected development clears the way for Perryman to return to his preparations for the upcoming NFL season.

Arrest and Initial Allegations

On Friday night, June 14, Perryman was pulled over by deputies from the South Los Angeles station during a routine traffic stop at approximately 9:30 p.m. According to a statement released by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, officers discovered five firearms inside Perryman’s vehicle. The cache reportedly included two assault-style rifles, sparking immediate concerns and leading to his arrest. Perryman was subsequently booked at the Inglewood jail on suspicion of a weapons violation.

Legal Proceedings: A Case Dropped

Legal processes in high-profile cases, especially those involving prominent athletes, tend to draw significant media attention. The circumstances surrounding Perryman’s arrest were no exception. Over the weekend, as Perryman remained in custody, questions swirled regarding the nature of the allegations and the potential legal ramifications for both his personal life and his professional career.

However, relief came for Perryman and the Chargers faithful on Monday, when the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office reviewed the case and ultimately decided not to pursue charges against the veteran linebacker. According to jail records provided by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, Perryman was released from custody, putting an end to speculation about a possible suspension or impact on the Chargers’ 2025 campaign.

The reasons behind the DA’s decision have not yet been fully disclosed to the public, though such outcomes are often the result of insufficient evidence, legal technicalities, or mitigating circumstances that warrant discretion. Regardless, the outcome means that Perryman will face no further legal consequences stemming from the incident.

Support from the Chargers Organization

During the ordeal, Perryman received strong backing from the Chargers organization. Newly appointed head coach Jim Harbaugh, who took over the coaching reins after the 2023 season, personally visited Perryman at the Inglewood jail over the weekend. Harbaugh, speaking to the media, described Perryman as being in good spirits despite the circumstances.

“Denzel has handled himself well through this process,” Harbaugh said. “We wanted him to know he has our support and that we believe in due process. We’re glad to see this matter resolved.”

The coach’s visit signals the Chargers’ commitment to supporting players during challenging times, reinforcing the franchise’s reputation for standing by its personnel when due process is ongoing.

A Veteran’s Steadfast Career

The incident briefly cast a shadow over what has otherwise been a remarkable NFL career for Denzel Perryman. Since being drafted by the Chargers in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Perryman has forged a reputation as a fierce competitor and a leader on the field. His career stat line is testament to his consistent impact: in 10 NFL seasons, Perryman has compiled 717 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and five interceptions. Moreover, his standout play during the 2021 campaign with the Las Vegas Raiders earned him a well-deserved Pro Bowl selection, further cementing his status as one of the league’s top inside linebackers.

After his initial six-year stint with the Chargers concluded in 2020, Perryman went on to play for the Raiders and later the Houston Texans. In a move that excited both teammates and fans, he returned to the Chargers ahead of the 2024 season, subsequently re-signing with Los Angeles at the advent of free agency. His leadership and experience are expected to be crucial components as the Chargers look to contend in the stacked AFC West.

Focus Returns to Football

With legal matters now behind him, Perryman can turn his attention fully back to football. The Chargers are in the midst of their offseason program, preparing for what is expected to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. The team’s first preseason game is scheduled for August 10, when they will face the New Orleans Saints.

The linebacker’s availability is undoubtedly a relief to a Chargers defense working under a re-energized coaching staff and returning talent. His presence provides both veteran leadership in the locker room and an on-field spark, particularly critical as the team installs new schemes under Harbaugh. With the competition in the division remaining fierce, every bit of experience and stability will be required as the Chargers pursue a postseason berth.

Broader Implications: Athletes and Off-the-Field Challenges

Perryman’s recent ordeal is yet another reminder of the unique pressures faced by professional athletes, who must navigate both public expectations and personal challenges. Encounters with the legal system, whether stemming from misunderstandings or more serious infractions, can quickly dominate news cycles and threaten to overshadow athletic accomplishments.

The supportive response by the Chargers organization reflects a growing trend in professional sports, where teams strive to balance accountability with empathy. Rather than rush to judgement or disciplinary action, the franchise’s approach allowed due process to unfold—an approach appreciated by both internal stakeholders and fans looking for clarity.

Looking Ahead

With the weapons charge no longer an obstacle, Denzel Perryman now has a clear path to continue his NFL journey without disruption. His focus—and that of his teammates and coaches—will be on the field, where high expectations await. The Chargers, with a core of emerging and established talent, are aiming to make noise in 2025 and end a playoff drought that has lingered for several seasons.

For Perryman personally, putting this legal scare behind him represents not just a return to football, but a reaffirmation of his commitment to his team and his profession. As the season draws closer, all eyes will be on the veteran linebacker to see how he responds to adversity—both as an athlete and a leader.

In sum, what began as a potentially career-altering incident ended with vindication for Denzel Perryman. With the support of his organization and teammates, he can now direct all his energy toward helping the Chargers reach new heights in the seasons to come.