Derwin James Suspended One Game for Safety Violations

Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh expressed his disappointment regarding the NFL's one-game suspension of safety Derwin James Jr. for repeated violations of safety rules, following a helmet-to-helmet hit on Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth. Harbaugh defended James, stating that he aims to avoid injuring other players and has made concerted efforts to adjust his tackling style in line with league expectations. Despite James' appeal, the suspension was upheld, highlighting his history of unnecessary roughness penalties since entering the league. Harbaugh argued that Freiermuth's positioning contributed to the incident, suggesting that James' attempt to tackle safely was misinterpreted. The Chargers plan to adapt their game strategy against the Chiefs in James' absence, utilizing other safety options. Harbaugh reiterated James' commitment to player safety and his integral role on the team.