Chargers Linebacker Plays After Brother’s Tragic Death

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Daiyan Henley received devastating news Saturday morning: his brother, Jabari Henley, was shot and killed in Los Angeles the night before. After teammate Denzel Perryman knocked on his hotel room door, Henley made the call that delivered the heart-wrenching update.

Jabari Henley, 34, was found with multiple gunshot wounds outside a smoke shop in South Los Angeles on Halloween night. Police reported that there was no known motive for the shooting, and no suspects have been apprehended.

Despite the tragedy, Daiyan Henley took to the field Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, delivering a standout performance with a sack, seven tackles, and a pass deflection. “Being transparent, I dropped to my knees,” he said, recalling the moment he prayed following his sack of Titans quarterback Cam Ward.

After the game, teammates consoled him as he sat at his locker, a towel draped over his head. He shared a heartfelt photo on Instagram with the caption, “Love you big bro.”

Safety Derwin James Jr. supported Henley throughout the emotional game, ensuring he had the assistance he needed. “That kid’s been through so much,” James said. “He’s our leader, and for him to go out there, I got so much respect for him.”

Besides the tragedy of his brother’s death, Henley had already faced significant challenges this year. His father, Eugene “Big U” Henley, is in jail awaiting trial on numerous criminal charges, including racketeering and extortion. Henley described finding solace in his team’s support during these trying times.

“As traumatizing as all this is, I got a job to do,” Henley said. “It’s been a long ride for me since the beginning of the season. I needed to handle my job first and then deal with everything.”

Jabari Henley was remembered as Daiyan’s best friend and protector. The younger Henley expressed deep pain over the loss, emphasizing the emotional toll of the year. “It’s probably been the worst year of my life,” he remarked. The Chargers and their fans continue to rally around Henley in this difficult time.