The Los Angeles Chargers’ proposed trade of linebacker Daiyan Henley to the Denver Broncos was called off after Henley reportedly failed Denver’s physical. The deal would have sent the Chargers a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick.
Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh criticized Denver’s handling of the process. He said the Broncos wanted Los Angeles to accept less compensation after Henley received an unfavorable medical grade, even though Denver’s assessment of the player’s health would not change.
## Henley Was a Key Part of the Chargers’ Defense
Los Angeles entered the trade deadline with an 0–8 record, prompting expectations that the team would trade some players for future draft picks. The Chargers made no other deals, despite reportedly becoming more open to trade discussions shortly before the deadline.
A third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Henley had become an important contributor on defense. He led the Chargers with 51 tackles this season and also recorded half a sack, one interception, two pass breakups and a forced fumble.
The trade appeared to offer benefits to both teams: Los Angeles would gain draft capital, while Denver would add depth at linebacker. But Harbaugh said the Broncos sought to renegotiate the agreed compensation after the physical, and the Chargers did not accept the lower offer.
## Chargers Keep Henley After Failed Deal
Based on Harbaugh’s account, the Chargers declined to change the terms, and the trade was canceled. Los Angeles will retain Henley, but it finished the deadline without adding the draft picks the proposed deal would have provided.
The Chargers were scheduled to face the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football in Week 10 as they looked for their first win of the season.
