{"id":826688,"date":"2026-03-22T06:57:31","date_gmt":"2026-03-22T06:57:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/826688\/"},"modified":"2026-03-22T06:57:31","modified_gmt":"2026-03-22T06:57:31","slug":"los-angeles-chargers-catch-a-huge-break-with-star-defender-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/826688\/","title":{"rendered":"Los Angeles Chargers catch a huge break with star defender"},"content":{"rendered":"

The NFL<\/a> offseason brings a steady stream of news about player transactions, along with the occasional off-the-field incident.<\/p>\n

Last year, the Los Angeles Chargers faced an unfortunate situation when a running back they had signed in free agency became involved in a fireworks incident. Now, the team has seen one of its star defenders suffer an injury.<\/p>\n

Advertisement<\/p>\n

MORE: Cincinnati Bengals pay tribute to former LB who retired at 29<\/a><\/p>\n

Reports<\/a> indicate that star safety Derwin James sustained an injury prior to the Fanatics Flag Football Classic. Fortunately, the injury is minor, offering a significant sense of relief for Chargers fans.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

James has made a major impact on the Chargers\u2019 defense since the team drafted him in 2018. Though injuries sidelined him at times early in his career.<\/p>\n

Over the past two seasons, he has stayed healthy, earning consecutive Pro Bowl selections while helping lead the Chargers to the playoffs.<\/p>\n

MORE: Philadelphia Eagles quietly acquire once promising offensive weapon<\/a><\/p>\n

With the 2028 Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles, questions have emerged about whether the NFL will allow players to participate in the flag football event. Incidents like this \u2014 even minor ones \u2014 are unlikely to reassure teams.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

The event replaced James with Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith. Fanatics opted to act out of an abundance of caution.<\/p>\n

Advertisement<\/p>\n

James, a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, has turned the Chargers\u2019 defense into a force in the AFC West with his aggressive style of play.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, both James and the Chargers avoided a major setback to their 2026 season.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead <\/a>\u2014<\/p>\n

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