Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Denzel Perryman was made available to the media today as training camp gets underway. Perryman and star tight end Darren Waller have been the subjects of contract rumors all offseason.
Perryman, with his now trademark beanie, spoke on the subject of his contract, or rather, declined to give any update.
Denzel Perryman wants a new contract with the Las Vegas Raiders
“My agent Ron Butler’s handling that. I just want to play football, I was waiting for that question. I’m sweating.”
As it stands, Perryman is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2023. Since his arrival, Perryman has become one of the leaders on the Raiders’ defense alongside Maxx Crosby. Looking to maintain this core, the Raiders would be smart to do so. As for Perryman himself, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported today that the Pro Bowl linebacker wants a new deal.
It shouldn’t be that shocking to see Perryman decline any comment on his contractual status. This current team brass has done its due diligence this offseason as they’ve extended several key contributors. Both Perryman and Waller figure to be next in line at some point. However, general manager Dave Ziegler does things at his own pace and is likely in no hurry to spend any of the available cap room.
“It’s like being at the first day of school all over again. I wouldn’t say nervous. I’m learning something new every day.”
As for training camp, Perryman was in great spirits. He compared the first day of training camp to the first day of school. With training camp now officially underway, it’ll be interesting to see if any new contracts are handed out before the season. Regardless, Perryman has more pressing issues needing attention, such as finding his place in Patrick Graham’s defense. Like he said, his agent will handle the rest.
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*Top Photo: L.E. Baskow/Las Vegas Review-Journal