Chargers Trade Daiyan Henley to Broncos for Two Picks

Los Angeles will receive a fourth-round selection in 2027 and a fifth-round pick in 2028 for Henley, 26. The Chargers had spent weeks saying they would not sell players at the trade deadline, making the deal a shift in course as they sit at 0-8.

Henley was a third-round draft choice and is in the final year of his contract. In 56 games with Los Angeles, he made 317 tackles, recorded five sacks and four interceptions, and forced one fumble. This season, through eight games, he has 51 tackles, half a sack and an interception.

The trade gives Denver another option at inside linebacker, where the Broncos have sought more dependable coverage. Henley is expected to add depth behind Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad. His own coverage has been a concern this season, with a 45.5 grade in that area and a 57.6 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.

Los Angeles can now give other linebackers, including Del’Shawn Phillips and Marlowe Wax, opportunities in its base defense. Henley’s contract ends after the season, and trading him means the Chargers receive draft picks rather than risk losing him without compensation. The team has not been willing to consider offers for quarterback Justin Herbert.