Chargers sign LB Denzel Perryman

The Chargers are bringing back a familiar face.

The Chargers signed linebacker Denzel Perryman, the team announced on Monday.

Perryman, 31, spent the first six years of his NFL career with the Chargers. In 69 total games (51 starts), he amassed 349 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, five sacks, eight quarterback hits, three forced fumbles, and three interceptions.

During the 2021 offseason, Perryman was signed by the Panthers before being traded to the Raiders a few months later. He had the best season of his career, racking up 154 tackles, and was voted to his first Pro Bowl.

After two seasons with Las Vegas, Perryman was signed by the Texans last offseason. In 13 games, Perryman recorded 76 tackles, six tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, and three passes defensed.

Perryman has been hit with injuries throughout his lengthy NFL career. But when he is on the field, he provides the defense with a physical and hard-hitting presence when coming downhill.

Report: Chargers LB Denzel Perryman plans to test free agency market

One of the top pending free agents for the Chargers is planning on surveying his options this offseason.

One of the top pending free agents for the Chargers is planning on surveying his options this offseason.

According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, linebacker Denzel Perryman is expected to test the free agency market when the period opens up.

Rapoport added that Perryman has not ruled out returning to Los Angeles. He earned a two-year, $12 million extension back in 2019 after his rookie contract.

Perryman had arguably his best season as a pro in 2020, even though he was relegated to a rotational role. Playing all but three games, the 28-year old notched 48 tackles, three tackles for loss, a sack and a pass deflection. He also allowed the fewest receptions and yards of his career.

In each season since getting drafted in 2015, Perryman has dealt with some sort of injury, forcing him to miss a total of 27 games since then.

Re-signing Perryman would supply the linebacker corps with a veteran presence. However, the Chargers have steadily been adding to the positional group the past few years with Kenneth Murray, Kyzir White, Drue Tranquill and Nick Vigil.

Showing to stay healthy and be productive this past season, Perryman may feel like he’s worth more than what Los Angeles might have in mind.