Steelers TE speaks at appeal hearing for Chargers safety

This week the Los Angeles Chargers will be without star safety Derwin James. James is serving a one-game suspension for repeated violations concerning repeated hits that were deemed illegal by the league.

The hit in question that put it over the top for the NFL was a hit on Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth in Week Two. You can check out the play in the tweet below.

Freiermuth spoke at James’ appeal hearing on his behalf telling the NFL he did not believe the hit was dirty. The league listened but it did not sway them and James still must serve his one-game suspension.

The Steelers understand how this can work. Safety Damontae Kazee was suspended for the final three games of the 2023 season after a hit on Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. which the league said was one of repeated violations. Kazee appealed but the suspension was upheld.