The Los Angeles Chargers are focusing on the health of several players this season, with veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman playing a key role in their linebacker depth battle. Perryman faced injuries in 2024, limiting him to just 12 games; despite this, he managed to contribute 55 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack during his limited appearances.
Rookie Junior Colson Struggles to Gain Traction
Expectations were high for Junior Colson, the Chargers’ third-round pick from 2024, to make an impact after recovering from his own injury setbacks. Unfortunately, Colson’s rookie year was hampered by pre-season injuries and training camp issues, restricting him to mostly special teams play across 11 games. The Chargers hope Colson can emulate the development path of last year’s breakout linebacker Daiyan Henley.
Perryman Outpacing Colson Early in Training Camp
According to Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Perryman is currently maintaining a lead over Colson on the linebacker depth chart. Perryman has consistently received first-team reps alongside Henley during the initial practices, indicating the Chargers’ confidence in his abilities. As Popper noted,
“It is clear through the first four practices that Denzel Perryman is ahead of Junior Colson on the linebacker depth chart. Perryman has received all of the first-team reps over Colson, next to Daiyan Henley. This competition will heat up when the pads come on.”
—Daniel Popper, The Athletic
Upcoming Competition Intensifies with Full Contact Practices
Colson acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating,
“When the pads come on, that’s when the bullets are flying.”
—Junior Colson, Linebacker
This reflects the reality that the battle for playing time will increase in physicality and intensity as the Chargers move into full-contact sessions. Both players’ performances in these upcoming practices will be critical in determining their roles.
Implications for Chargers’ Linebacker Depth
Watching this linebacker depth battle unfold will be important for the Chargers as they look to improve defensive consistency. Perryman’s experience gives him an early advantage, but Colson’s potential offers hope for the future. Having a healthy, competitive linebacker group adds valuable depth and flexibility for the team’s defense moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How good is Denzel Perryman?
A. The player, with 10 years of experience, is key to the Bolts’ defense, which is still one of the top groups in the league midway through the season. He ranks second on the team with 49 tackles and has been a starter in all nine games so far.