Denzel Perryman’s weapons violation marks the latest NFL preseason arrest.
PublishedAugust 4, 2025 10:09 PM EDT•UpdatedAugust 4, 2025 10:09 PM EDT
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Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman was detained over the weekend following an arrest in L.A. County related to multiple gun violations.
Perryman was released from detainment on Monday afternoon, and L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman did not press charges against the 32-year-old Perryman.
The L.A. County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Perryman’s arrest on Aug. 1.
“During the traffic stop, deputies discovered five firearms in Mr. Perryman’s vehicle, two of which were assault-style rifles,” the statement read in part. “He was arrested and booked on weapons violation charges and was cooperative with deputies.”
INGLEWOOD, CA – DECEMBER 19: Denzel Perryman #6 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos at SoFi Stadium on December 19, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
Speaking with The Athletic, Perryman’s attorney Ron Butler shared that charges had been dropped after cops pulled Perryman over due to “vehicle violations,” only to discover Perryman was carrying five firearms in his vehicle.
“We’re grateful the matter has been resolved,” Butler said in a statement to The Athletic. “At this time, Denzel is focused on getting back to his family and teammates.”
While some may have reservations about Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh’s judgment, the coach proudly stood by his player on Monday after answering a question about his player’s recent arrest and release.
PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 22: Â Denzel Perryman #6 of the Los Angeles Chargers in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers on September 22, 2024 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Â (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
 “He was in good spirits,” Harbaugh said. “I love Denzel. He’s always done right. He’s never been in trouble. Got a beautiful family, and we’re just letting the due process play out.”
Perryman made not-so-serious headlines in recent weeks after jokingly suggesting the Chargers were better suited in San Diego, the team’s previous host city.
“I feel like we should’ve been went back,” Perryman said. “That’s where it all started. I’m excited just to go back in general.”
Drafted in 2015, Perryman spent two seasons in SD before playing for the Carolina Panthers in 2021, then bouncing to the Raiders and Texans before rejoining the Chargers in 2024. He ranks eighth all-time in tackles for the Chargers with 289.
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