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Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley played Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans with a heavy heart after learning his brother was killed earlier in the week.
His older brother, Jabari, was shot and killed in Los Angeles on Friday night. The NFL player stayed in Nashville for the game against the Titans.
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Tennessee Titans wide receiver Van Jefferson (11) runs alongside Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)
He said teammate Denzel Perryman told him to call his mother while the team was at the hotel, according to ESPN. He admitted that he “fell to his knees” when he heard the tragic news. Los Angeles police told the outlet that Jabari Henley was shot multiple times as he approached a vehicle and no suspect was identified in the murder.
Daiyan Henley explained why he decided to play and not return home.
“Right now, I’m just floating and the only thing that’s consistent right now in my life, and it’s crazy to say this, is football,” Henley told reporters. “So for me, that’s why I’m there, because this is the most consistent thing I have in my life right now: football. And I’m just trying to make the most of it.”
Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward (1) is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)
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Henley had seven tackles and a sack in the 27-20 win. He knelt and briefly prayed after sacking Titans quarterback Cam Ward.
“I just wanted to talk to my brother one more time,” Henley said via ESPN. “It was just an emotional moment for me to be able to make a play on a day like this, losing it so soon. Like I said, it’s been a long year for me, so I had to send up a prayer and I hope he hears it.”
He credited Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh for helping him through a difficult year.
Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears (2) passes by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)
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“It was probably the first call I got for every situation,” Henley said. “He was there, right there and he just told me, keep your head down, keep trying, keep working and try to be consistent.”
