Chargers’ Linebacker Denzel Perryman Arrested in L.A. for Possession of Assault Weapon

What Happened: Arrest Details & Legal Grounds

Officials from the South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station stopped Perryman’s vehicle Friday evening

for a vehicle code violation. While searching, deputies discovered five firearms in the trunk—two

AR‑style rifles and three handguns. The rifles are illegal under California law, as they fail compliance standards.

He was arrested and taken into custody on a felony weapons charge. Despite powerful public scrutiny, sources

confirmed Perryman was “very cooperative during the encounter.” He remains incarcerated pending a scheduled

court appearance on Tuesday.

Agent Response & Player Reputation

Perryman’s agent, Ron Butler of Agency1 Sports, released a statement via NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport:

“Denzel is a respected veteran in the NFL and a dedicated father, teammate, and professional. We are gathering facts and remain confident that the matter will be resolved fairly and in accordance with the law.”

This is Perryman’s first felony arrest, but he previously faced disciplinary issues in 2023—with a three-game suspension during his stint with the Texans for violating player safety rules.

Career Snapshot: From Miami to Charger Legend

• Born: December 5, 1992 in Coral Gables, Florida

• College: Miami Hurricanes

• NFL Draft: 2015, 2nd Round by the San Diego Chargers

After six seasons with the Chargers, Perryman had stints with the Panthers, Raiders, and Texans, earning his only Pro Bowl selection in 2021 with Las Vegas. He returned to L.A. in 2024 under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Last season, Perryman recorded 55 tackles and 1 interception across 11 games—significant production for the veteran leader.

Entering his 11th NFL season, Perryman is also the last remaining player on the Chargers’ roster originally drafted when the club was still in San Diego.

Legal Implications & NFL Fallout

Legal Risk

In California, owning non‑compliant assault weapons is a serious offense. A conviction could result in up to several years in prison, steep fines, and significant reputational damage.

NFL Policy

Beyond legal jeopardy, Perryman risks league discipline. The NFL’s personal conduct policy allows for suspension or fines depending on judicial outcomes—even before convictions. Given his prior disciplinary history, the league may act swiftly.

Team Impact

As a veteran team captain and locker-room leader, Perryman’s absence could create a void in leadership. The Chargers are still assessing training camp roles, with younger players like Junior Colson pushing for playing time.

On-Field Value & Team Standing

Perryman’s consistent performance anchoring the middle linebacker position and leading with tough tackling—has made him a fixture on key downs. He was instrumental in helping the Chargers finish 11–6 and reach the playoffs in 2024 under Harbaugh.

At 32 years old, Perryman remains one of the most seasoned defenders on the roster—a mentor to younger teammates and respected voice in defensive strategy.

Broader Context: Guns & Athletes in California

California enforces some of the strictest gun control laws in the U.S. Possessing non-compliant magazines, rifles, or firearms—regardless of intent or destination—is a felony offense. Even though Perryman intended to go to a shooting range, the legality hinged on compliance at the time of transportation.

Final Take

Denzel Perryman’s arrest in Los Angeles for possession of illegally non-compliant AR rifles and multiple handguns marks a serious and unexpected turn in his veteran NFL career. It comes just as training camp heats up, legal scrutiny mounts, and the league prepares for potential conduct ruling—regardless of court outcome. For a respected linebacker with nearly a decade in the league, the implications are profound: from potential incarceration, loss of starting role, team sanctions, to career derailment.

As the story develops, Chargers fans and NFL observers will be watching legal motions, team decisions, league response, and Perryman’s own approach to resolving the situation. His future both on and off the field now hangs in the balance.