Broncos abort trade for Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley after failed physical
A proposed intra-division deal sending linebacker Daiyan Henley to Denver was cancelled after the Broncos discovered a knee issue during his physical.
The Denver Broncos announced Wednesday that the trade for Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley has been called off after medical staff identified a problem with one of his knees during the required physical. The agreement, which would have sent Henley to Denver in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick, could not be revived despite attempts to restructure the draft compensation.
ESPN reporter Jeff Legwold said the Broncos "discovered an issue" with Henley’s knee, prompting the team to halt the transaction. The trade had been pending completion of physical examinations for both clubs.
Henley, a 2023 third-round selection who is entering his contract year, will remain with the Los Angeles Chargers, who are currently winless. He has played through a torn labrum and a recent shoulder concern but has not missed a start this season.
Denver will retain its current inside-linebacker tandem of Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, both re-signed this offseason after cutting Dre Greenlaw. The Broncos, thin at the position, will rely on those players and a few recent undrafted signings.
The failed deal follows a similar deadline-day collapse of a trade between the Bengals and Eagles for Arnold Ebiketie, and mirrors a previously reported aborted trade involving Maxx Crosby that was halted over medical concerns.