Setp 24, V7N - The NFL has suspended Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James for one game following "repeated violations" of player health and safety rules. According to The Athletic, James plans to appeal the suspension. If the suspension is upheld, the Chargers will be without their Pro Bowl safety for their Week 4 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The suspension stems from a hit James delivered during the Chargers' 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. James led with his helmet when tackling Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth, resulting in a penalty. James expressed frustration afterward, stating he didn't believe the hit targeted Freiermuth's head or neck.

NFL vice president of football operations Jon Runyan explained in a letter that James had an unobstructed path and could have avoided the illegal contact, noting the league's emphasis on protecting player safety. Runyan highlighted James' "continued disregard" for the rules as a factor in the suspension.

James, 28, has played three games this season, recording 21 tackles and one sack. A former first-round pick in 2018, he has been a standout for the Chargers, earning three Pro Bowl selections and one first-team All-Pro honor. Over his six-season career, James has accumulated 518 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 32 pass breakups, eight interceptions, and five forced fumbles in 69 games.

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