The Chargers re-signed quarterback Kellen Clemens on Monday, keeping the 34-year-old to back up Philip Rivers for the fourth straight season.
The team had released Clemens at the 90-to-53 cutdown deadline this past Saturday, but only did so to preserve roster flexibility through the weekend. Clemens has only thrown 10 regular-season passes with the Chargers, but has a strong relationship with Rivers and is commuting with the six-time Pro Bowler from their homes in San Diego County to the team’s practice facility in Costa Mesa.
Briefly parting with Clemens allowed the Chargers to keep Denzel Perryman on their initial 53-man roster through the weekend — a necessary prerequisite should they wish to reactivate the injured linebacker later in the season. Perryman underwent ankle surgery in August, and could be sidelined for at least two months.
The Chargers placed the starting middle linebacker on injured reserve Monday morning, but are hoping to see him on the field again later this fall. Korey Toomer, a former fifth-round pick, is currently filling in at the top of the depth chart.