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Los Angeles Chargers leader hints at NFL suspension update

Originally posted on Los Angeles Chargers on SI
By Chris Roling | Last updated Dec 18, 2025 10:30 AM ET

It doesn't sound like the Los Angeles Chargers will deal with an NFL suspension this week.

There was some question as to the fate of veteran safety Tony Jefferson as the Chargers get ready to play the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16.

After all, Jefferson put a wicked hit on a Kansas City Chiefs player last week, drawing a flag and an ejection. It was all controversial, yet led to justified speculation that the NFL could step in and hit Jefferson with a suspension to make an example out of him.

But mid-week, Jefferson offered a notable update on his status for Week 16.

Chargers player suspended? Unlikely, it seems

things have gotten heated between Chiefs & Chargers after a big hit on Tyquan Thornton pic.twitter.com/OAJ8rNfAOL
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) December 14, 2025

Jefferson spoke with reporters before Week 16 and signaled he has yet to hear from the NFL about a suspension.

According to ESPN’s Kris Rhim, Jefferson is “pretty sure” he isn’t getting suspended because he hasn’t heard from the NFL yet.

As always, the NFL announces the league-wide list of fines and/or suspensions on the Saturday following a game. But players get notified in advance, so the fact Jefferson hasn’t heard anything yet might be a good sign.

In some cases, the NFL considers in-game punishment, especially ejections, to be enough. Jefferson’s ejection might qualify here. That’s especially the case considering the ruling on the field at the time of the play seemed 50-50 at best.

Chargers safety Tony Jefferson ejected for this hit and likely facing a fine as well. pic.twitter.com/xbh2dManR2
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 14, 2025

Both Jefferson and the Chiefs player braced for impact while lowering before the collision. The flag and punishment, at least at the time, seemed more a reaction to the aftermath of the collision than the actual mechanics behind it.

This is overall just good news for the Chargers. The safety room is a mess right now. They traded away one player before the deadline. Elijah Molden has been battling an injury and breakout rookie story RJ Mickens suffered an injury last week that could have him missing time.

Barring good injury news, that leaves Jefferson to pair with the likes of Kendall Williamson while Derwin James continues to float around formations. The Chargers also signed Marcus Maye to the practice squad as insurance this week.

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This article first appeared on Los Angeles Chargers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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