4 Chargers players the Panthers should watch out for in Week 3
By Dean Jones
Denzel Perryman – LB
While other players on the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense gain more attention, the standout ability that Denzel Perryman brings to the table is something that should not be overlooked.
The linebacker has been at the top of his game so far this season to further enhance his overall influence on the team. Perryman is exceptional in run support and is athletic enough to help in coverage when required.
He might be something of an afterthought compared to other high-profile names on the Chargers’ defense. But Perryman has left an eye-catching impression during his time on the field this season.
The Carolina Panthers have some significant questions to answer about their ability to run the ball with Christian McCaffrey going down with an injury. Mike Davis showed plenty of promise in the passing game late on at the Bucs on his way to eight catches for 74 receiving yards. However, doing the same against the Chargers is another matter entirely.
Perryman’s production so far this season had earned the former second-round pick a lofty 86.2 grade from Pro Football Focus, which is a good start in pursuit of a lucrative long-term deal next spring. He has only been on the field for 19.2 percent of the Chargers’ defensive snaps so far and this is something that should come with a big increase as the campaign progresses.