Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley demonstrated remarkable resilience by playing in Sunday’s NFL game against the Tennessee Titans, just a day after learning that his older brother, Jabari Henley, had been shot and killed in Los Angeles. Henley’s performance, which included a sack and seven tackles, contributed to the Chargers’ 27-20 win, as he channeled his grief into focus on the field.
On Sunday, November 2, 2025, Daiyan Henley started for the Chargers in their away game in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite the personal tragedy, he recorded seven tackles, a sack for a loss, a pass deflection, and a quarterback hit, playing a key role in the team’s defensive efforts. His ability to maintain composure under such circumstances impressed teammates and coaches alike, highlighting his professional dedication. The Chargers secured a 27-20 victory, with Henley’s contributions being a significant factor in the outcome.
Henley learned of his brother’s death on Saturday morning when he was awakened by loud knocks on his hotel room door. Teammate Denzel Perryman urged him to call his mother, who delivered the devastating news that Jabari had been fatally shot the previous night. Henley described dropping to his knees upon hearing the news but emphasized that he never considered skipping the game. He viewed football as an escape and the most consistent part of his life during this turbulent period.
During the game, Henley had an emotional moment after sacking Titans quarterback Cam Ward in the second quarter. He knelt on the field to pray, later explaining that he wanted to “talk to my brother one more time” and send a message he hoped Jabari could hear. After the final whistle, Henley was seen with a towel over his head, being consoled by teammates in the locker room. He also posted a tribute on social media with the caption, “Love you big bro,” capturing his raw emotions.
The Chargers organization rallied around Henley, with safety Derwin James keeping a close watch on him from pregame warmups through the national anthem to offer support. Coach Jim Harbaugh had been in constant contact, repeatedly encouraging Henley to stay focused and grind through the adversity. Henley credited Harbaugh as often being the first to reach out in difficult situations, underscoring the team’s supportive culture. This network of support helped him navigate the unimaginable pain.
Jabari Henley, 34, was shot multiple times outside a smoke shop in South Los Angeles on Halloween night, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The incident occurred around 11 p.m., and despite officers’ attempts to render aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A preliminary investigation indicated he was shot while approaching a vehicle, with suspects fleeing and no arrests made as of Sunday. The case is being treated as a homicide, with ongoing efforts to identify those responsible.
This tragedy adds to a challenging year for Daiyan Henley, who has faced multiple personal struggles. In March, his father, Eugene “Big U” Henley, a former gang leader turned music executive, was arrested on charges including racketeering, extortion, and murder. Additionally, Henley battled a severe infection earlier in the season that caused him to lose 10 pounds and require an oxygen tank during games. These events have compounded his grief, making this period what he described as “the worst year of my life.”
Looking ahead, Henley expressed his intention to continue playing, using football as a means to cope and honor his brother’s memory. He plans to channel his pain into his performance, supported by his team and the routine the sport provides. The Chargers and the broader NFL community are likely to continue offering resources for grief counseling and emotional support. Henley’s story underscores the human side of professional athletics, where personal loss and professional duty intersect in profound ways.