Last Updated on November 5, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Daiyan Henley is an American professional football player who plays as a linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers in the National Football League (NFL). Born on November 18, 1999, in Los Angeles, California, Henley grew up in South Los Angeles and developed his football career with the support of his family.
Henley’s parents are Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr. and Stacey Henley. He grew up with two older brothers, Michael and Jabari, and a younger sister named Cherysh. His father is a well-known entertainment executive and community organizer, while his mother has supported the family’s charitable activities. In October 2025, Henley experienced a devastating family tragedy when his older brother Jabari was killed in Los Angeles.
Daiyan Henley’s Girlfriend or Wife
As of now, Daiyan Henley has not publicly confirmed the identity of a girlfriend or wife. There is no reliable, publicly verified information establishing that the Los Angeles Chargers linebacker is married or identifying his current romantic partner.
Although Henley has participated in numerous interviews discussing his football career, upbringing and family relationships, he has generally kept his romantic life outside the public spotlight.
His public comments have focused primarily on his parents, siblings, community involvement and experiences as a professional football player.
Therefore, it would be inaccurate to identify a girlfriend, fiancée or wife without reliable confirmation from Henley or another credible source.
Daiyan Henley’s Children
As of now, there is no publicly verified information confirming that Daiyan Henley has children.
The Chargers linebacker has not made a widely documented announcement about becoming a father, and official NFL biographies do not identify any sons or daughters.
Henley has spoken openly about the importance of family and his responsibility toward relatives, but those comments do not establish that he has children of his own.
Consequently, any claims about the number, names or ages of his children should be treated as unconfirmed unless supported by reliable public evidence.
Daiyan Henley’s Parents
Daiyan Henley was born to Eugene Henley Jr. and Stacey Henley. Their identities are confirmed in his official University of Nevada and Washington State University football biographies.
His parents raised him in the Crenshaw area of South Los Angeles, where football, education and community involvement became important parts of his upbringing.
Although his father had experienced serious difficulties earlier in life, both parents worked to provide opportunities for their children.
Daiyan Henley’s Father: Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr.
Daiyan Henley’s father is Eugene Henley Jr., widely known as “Big U,” an American entertainment executive, former gang leader and community organizer from Los Angeles.
Eugene became known in the entertainment industry through his relationships with several influential West Coast hip-hop artists, including Snoop Dogg, Kurupt and the late Nipsey Hussle.
He also participated in the production of the FX documentary series Hip Hop Uncovered, which explored the connections between the music industry and the streets of Los Angeles.
However, Eugene’s earlier life included involvement with the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips and a lengthy prison sentence.
According to an August 2023 Los Angeles Times family profile, he served approximately 13 years in prison before being released in January 2004.
During his incarceration, Stacey brought their sons to visit him, allowing the family to maintain contact despite the separation.
Following his release, Eugene became more actively involved in Daiyan’s upbringing and football development.
He helped coach his son in youth football and introduced him to structured training routines.
These included early-morning workouts, conditioning exercises and football practices designed to improve his athletic performance.
Eugene also encouraged Daiyan to prioritize education and avoid the difficulties he had experienced during his own youth.
In 2004, he established Developing Options, a nonprofit organization focused on providing educational, athletic and personal development opportunities for young people in underserved Los Angeles communities.
In March 2025, Eugene was charged in a federal criminal case involving alleged racketeering and other offenses. Additional allegations were included in a superseding indictment in July 2026. He has denied wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty. These are allegations against Eugene, not Daiyan, and criminal charges do not establish guilt.
How Eugene Henley Influenced His Son’s Football Career
Daiyan Henley has frequently acknowledged the influence of his father on his athletic development.
During an April 2022 interview with The Spokesman-Review, he described Eugene’s involvement in entertainment, community activities and youth mentorship.
Henley explained that his father’s experiences helped him understand the importance of making positive decisions.
Growing up in South Los Angeles exposed Daiyan to different challenges, but football provided structure and an opportunity to pursue a successful future.
His father became one of his earliest coaches and encouraged him to develop discipline and confidence.
By the time Daiyan was selected by the Chargers in the 2023 NFL Draft, his father had watched him progress from youth football to college athletics and ultimately the professional league.
Daiyan Henley’s Mother: Stacey Henley
Daiyan Henley’s mother is Stacey Henley, who played an important role in raising him and his siblings.
Stacey supported the family during Eugene’s incarceration and continued helping her children pursue their education and athletic interests.
According to the Los Angeles Times, she regularly traveled with her sons to visit their father while he was serving his prison sentence.
Following Eugene’s release, Stacey helped maintain a supportive family environment as the children grew older.
She also became involved with Developing Options, the nonprofit organization established by her husband.
In an April 2022 interview with The Spokesman-Review, Daiyan confirmed that his mother worked with the organization, which provided mentorship and opportunities for young people in Los Angeles.
Stacey also supported her son’s college football career, attending games and traveling with Eugene to watch him compete.
During Daiyan’s time at the University of Nevada and Washington State University, his parents frequently traveled to support him.
When he joined the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023, the opportunity carried special significance because he would be playing professionally near his hometown and family.
Daiyan Henley’s Siblings
Daiyan Henley grew up with three siblings: two older brothers, Michael and Jabari Henley, and one younger sister, Cherysh Henley.
Their names and relationships are confirmed by the University of Nevada and Washington State University athletics departments.
Growing up in the same household, the siblings experienced a childhood strongly influenced by their parents’ experiences and their connections to the Los Angeles community.
Daiyan Henley’s Older Brother: Michael Henley
Michael Henley is one of Daiyan Henley’s two older brothers.
According to the Los Angeles Times’ August 2023 family profile, Michael grew up during a period when their father was incarcerated.
Alongside his brother Jabari, Michael experienced many of the challenges associated with growing up in South Los Angeles without their father consistently present at home.
After Eugene returned to the household in 2004, the family began adjusting to having him involved in their everyday lives.
Although Michael has been identified in official college football biographies and major newspaper reporting, further details about his professional occupation and personal life have not been reliably established.
Daiyan Henley’s Late Older Brother: Jabari Henley
Jabari Henley was Daiyan Henley’s older brother and one of the most important people in his life.
Jabari grew up alongside Michael and Daiyan in Los Angeles and maintained a close relationship with his younger brother.
According to reporting by The Associated Press, Daiyan considered Jabari one of his closest friends and described him as someone who consistently protected and supported their family.
Unfortunately, Jabari was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles on October 31, 2025. He was 34 years old.
His death occurred while Daiyan and the Chargers were preparing for an NFL game against the Tennessee Titans in Nashville.
The news devastated Henley, who learned about his brother’s death the following morning.
Despite the tragedy, Daiyan decided to play in the game on November 2, 2025.
He explained that his teammates and coaches had provided emotional support and that he wanted to honor his brother through his performance.
Henley recorded seven defensive tackles, a sack and a pass defended during the Chargers’ 27-20 victory over Tennessee, according to the team’s official report.
After recording the sack, he dropped to his knees and prayed in memory of Jabari.
Following the game, an emotional Henley told reporters that he wished he could speak with his brother one more time.
The Chargers organization publicly supported him, with teammates including Derwin James Jr., Troy Dye and Elijah Molden expressing sympathy for his loss.
Henley’s determination to play despite his grief became one of the most emotional stories of the Chargers’ 2025 season.
Daiyan Henley’s Younger Sister: Cherysh Henley
Cherysh Henley is Daiyan Henley’s younger sister and the youngest of the four children identified in the family’s official college football biographies.
She grew up in Los Angeles alongside her brothers and parents.
Cherysh was also mentioned in the Los Angeles Times’ 2023 feature about the Henley family, which described the close relationships within their household.
Although her identity is publicly documented, additional details about her education, occupation and personal relationships have not been extensively reported by reliable sources.
Unlike Daiyan, who pursued a professional football career, Cherysh has largely remained outside the sports media spotlight.
Daiyan Henley’s Childhood and Family Background
Daiyan Henley was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, where he attended Crenshaw High School.
His childhood was strongly connected to the city’s football and entertainment communities.
Through his father’s work in the music industry, he became familiar with several prominent figures in West Coast hip-hop.
One of those figures was the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, whom Daiyan described as an important influence during his younger years.
According to a February 2025 USA Today interview, Henley considered Hussle a family-like figure because of the close relationship between the rapper and his father.
At Crenshaw High School, Henley developed into a versatile football player capable of performing several positions.
He played quarterback, defensive end, safety and wide receiver during different stages of his development.
His performances earned him recognition as a City Most Valuable Player and helped Crenshaw win the Los Angeles Coliseum League championship in 2015.
After graduating, Henley accepted an opportunity to play college football at the University of Nevada.
How Daiyan Henley’s Family Influenced His NFL Career
Family support was an important factor in Daiyan Henley’s development into a professional football player.
His father introduced him to structured training and emphasized the importance of making responsible choices, while his mother provided encouragement throughout his education and football journey.
Henley began his college career at Nevada in 2017 as a wide receiver before transitioning to defense.
He eventually became a linebacker and developed into an important member of the Wolf Pack defense.
In 2022, he transferred to Washington State University, where he enjoyed an outstanding final college season.
Henley recorded 106 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, four sacks and three forced fumbles, earning First-Team All-Pac-12 recognition.
His performances attracted the attention of NFL scouts, and the Los Angeles Chargers selected him in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 85th overall pick.
Joining the Chargers meant Henley could represent the city where he grew up while remaining close to his family.
He developed into a key member of the team’s defense, becoming a regular starter and defensive leader.
During the 2025 NFL season, Henley recorded 103 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and two interceptions, according to official Chargers reporting.
Although he experienced a serious illness and the death of his brother during that season, he continued competing with the support of relatives, teammates and coaches.
In September 2026, Henley discussed how those experiences had strengthened his determination to keep improving as an NFL player.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daiyan Henley’s Family
Who is Daiyan Henley’s girlfriend?
As of now, Daiyan Henley has not publicly confirmed the identity of a current girlfriend or romantic partner.
Is Daiyan Henley married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Daiyan Henley is married or has a wife.
Does Daiyan Henley have children?
There is no publicly verified information confirming that Daiyan Henley has children.
Who is Daiyan Henley’s father?
His father is Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr., an entertainment executive and community organizer from Los Angeles.
Who is Daiyan Henley’s mother?
His mother is Stacey Henley, who helped raise him and his siblings in Los Angeles and has worked with the Developing Options nonprofit organization.
How many siblings does Daiyan Henley have?
Daiyan Henley has three siblings: two older brothers, Michael and Jabari, and a younger sister named Cherysh.
What happened to Daiyan Henley’s brother?
His older brother, Jabari Henley, was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles on October 31, 2025, at the age of 34.
Who is Daiyan Henley’s sister?
His younger sister is Cherysh Henley, whose name is confirmed in his official University of Nevada and Washington State University football biographies.
Is Big U Daiyan Henley’s father?
Yes. Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr. is Daiyan Henley’s father. He is known for his involvement in the Los Angeles entertainment industry and community organizations.
Where is Daiyan Henley’s family from?
Daiyan Henley grew up in the Crenshaw area of South Los Angeles, California.
What is Daiyan Henley’s full name?
His full name is Daiyan Dwayne Henley, according to the Los Angeles Chargers’ official media guide.
How old is Daiyan Henley?
Born on November 18, 1999, Daiyan Henley is 26 years old as of now.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
