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Chargers Linebacker Arrested In Los Angeles

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Aug 2, 2025 12:15 PM ET

Veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman of the Los Angeles Chargers was arrested Friday in Los Angeles on a felony weapons charge, adding an unexpected layer of off-field turbulence as he prepares for his 11th NFL season.

Arrest Details: Firearms Found During Traffic Stop

According to a report from TMZ Sports, Perryman was pulled over by South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station officers while en route to a local gun range. During the stop, officers conducted a search of his vehicle and found two AR-style rifles and three handguns stored in his trunk. While the handguns were reportedly legal, the rifles were deemed non-compliant under California’s stringent gun laws, leading to Perryman being booked on a charge of possession of an assault weapon.

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Perryman was cooperative during the encounter and, per follow-up reporting, was released after posting bond. A court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday. This marks the 32-year-old linebacker’s first felony charge.

NFL Veteran in Second Stint With Chargers

Perryman is no stranger to Chargers fans. Originally drafted by the then–San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Perryman spent the first six seasons of his career with the franchise, establishing himself as a hard-hitting, run-stopping force in the middle of the defense.

After leaving as a free agent in 2021, Perryman briefly signed with the Carolina Panthers before being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, where he would go on to have a career-best season. In 2021, he racked up 154 tackles and earned his first Pro Bowl selection. He later played for the Houston Texans in 2023 before re-signing with the Chargers for the 2024 season.

Legal Fallout and What Comes Next

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California law is particularly strict when it comes to the classification and possession of assault weapons. If convicted, Perryman could face significant legal consequences, although first-time offenders with no criminal history are often offered alternatives such as diversion programs or reduced charges—especially if cooperation is established.

As of publication, the Chargers organization has not issued a public statement regarding the arrest. It remains to be seen how the team and the NFL will respond, particularly with the preseason just weeks away and Perryman expected to play a role in a relatively thin linebacker unit.

Final Thoughts

The arrest comes at a delicate time for both Perryman and the Chargers. While the full legal process will need to play out, the incident could impact both his availability and standing within the organization. For now, the veteran linebacker faces serious questions off the field—just as he looked to reestablish himself on it.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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