NFL Suspends Chargers’ Derwin James for Dangerous Helmet Hit Against Steelers

The NFL has handed a one-game suspension without pay to LA Chargers safety and former Florida State standout Derwin James. The penalty comes after James was flagged for an illegal hit during last Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, further fueling the league’s effort to reinforce rules protecting player safety.

Suspension Due to Safety Violations

Derwin James was suspended for a violation involving lowering his helmet and delivering a forceful hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth in the Chargers’ 20-10 loss. This was not James’ only penalty during the game, as he had also been flagged for a facemask violation earlier in the contest.

The NFL emphasized the importance of player safety in its decision, citing James’ repeated disregard for the rules. In a tweet shared by NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the league outlined the severity of the infraction. “The video of the play shows that you lowered your head and made forcible contact… the illegal contact could have been avoided,” the statement read, stressing that such violations would not be tolerated.

Poor Timing for the Chargers

The timing of this suspension couldn’t be worse for the LA Chargers. As they prepare to face the reigning Super Bowl champions, the 3-0 Kansas City Chiefs, on September 29, they may also be without their star quarterback Justin Herbert. Herbert sustained an ankle injury during the game against the Steelers, putting his availability for the next match in doubt.

With key players on both sides of the ball potentially missing, the Chargers face a tough challenge as they attempt to maintain momentum early in the season.

James’ Impact and Career

Derwin James has been a force on the Chargers’ defense, recording 15 tackles and one sack so far this season. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 218 pounds, the Pro Bowler has spent seven years in the NFL after being drafted in the first round by the Chargers in 2018. Known for his dynamic play, James is a key contributor to LA’s defense and his absence will certainly be felt.

As the Chargers look to regroup, they face an uphill battle against one of the NFL’s most formidable teams without one of their star defenders.

Jalen Hurts Proposes to College Sweetheart Bry Burrows After Historic NFL Game

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has capped off a memorable week with an even more personal and life-changing moment. After making history by playing in the NFL’s first-ever game in South America during Week 1 against the Green Bay Packers, Hurts surprised his longtime love, Bry Burrows, with a heartfelt marriage proposal. The intimate moment came soon after the game, making an already unforgettable event even more special.

Hurts, 25, shared the joyful news during an interview with Essence, describing the proposal as a moment he had envisioned for a long time. “I knew a long time ago,” Hurts said, reflecting on his journey with Burrows. “To this point in my life, that’s an irreplaceable feeling. I think that’s what allowed us to get to where we are now.” The quarterback’s heartfelt words gave fans a glimpse into the deep bond the couple shares.

The proposal itself was nothing short of romantic, with rose petals, candles, and a violinist setting the scene. Hurts made sure every detail was perfect as he asked Burrows, his college sweetheart, to be his forever. Fans had been speculating about the couple’s engagement when Burrows was spotted before the Eagles-Packers game sporting a sparkling diamond ring on her finger.

The couple’s love story goes back to their college days at the University of Alabama, where Hurts played quarterback for the Crimson Tide. Their connection deepened over the years, both excelling in their respective fields while maintaining a strong relationship. Both Hurts and Burrows are proud members of the Divine Nine, an influential group of Black Greek-letter organizations. Hurts belongs to Omega Psi Phi, while Burrows is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Although they kept their relationship largely private for years, Hurts and Burrows went public with their love in 2023. That same year, Hurts led the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game and helped the team advance to Super Bowl LVII, marking a career milestone for the rising star. As Hurts’ career soared, his relationship with Burrows remained a grounding force in his life.

Now in his fifth season with the Eagles, Hurts continues to shine on and off the field. He finished the 2023 season with a career-best 3,858 passing yards and 23 touchdowns, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. And while his accomplishments on the field are noteworthy, Hurts’ engagement to Burrows has become the most personal victory of his journey.

As the couple embarks on this new chapter of their lives, fans can’t help but celebrate with them. From college sweethearts to lifelong partners, Jalen Hurts and Bry Burrows are proof that love, much like football, requires dedication, teamwork, and a shared vision of the future.