Daiyan Henley's sophomore season was one of the highlights of 2024 for the LA Chargers. After a quiet rookie season, Henley recorded 147 combined tackles with an interception, eight passes defended, and one quarterback sack. Many believe he should have been a Pro Bowler.
Henley's breakout season was somehow made even more impressive this week. The former third-round pick revealed to ESPN's Kris Rhim that he was playing through an undisclosed shoulder injury for most of the season.
"In Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Henley suffered a torn labrum in his left shoulder while making a tackle," Rhim wrote. "His season would have been over if he had opted for surgery, but instead Henley played his next two games with a shoulder strap and another arm restraint to prevent further injury."
After a disappointing game in Week 7 against the Arizona Cardinals, Henley asked the Chargers to adjust his shoulder contraption. According to Henley, this increased his odds of dislocating his shoulder. He didn't care. Henley did it anyway.
Daiyan Henley's hidden injury makes Asante Samuel Jr. look even worse
Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. sat on the Injured Reserve while Henley played through a torn labrum. In fact, Samuel's last game played for the Chargers was the same game in which Henley hurt his shoulder in Week 4.
Chargers fans were told at the time that Samuel's injury was suffered outside of practice. The fourth-year cornerback was a late addition to the IR the day before a game and there was no explanation for his absence the entire year.
Samuel told reporters after the season that he suffered a stinger with lingering effects. However, considering the hushed nature of the injury, and the fact Jim Harbaugh said it happened outside of practice, many fans jumped to the conclusion that Samuel was protecting his upcoming free agency by sitting out.
Those who believe that theory will undoubtedly lose respect for Samuel. Henley played through pain to give his all for the Chargers in 2025. Samuel played four games.
Fans will never know if that theory is true. Regardless of the full story, it has had an impact on Samuel this offseason.
Asante Samuel Jr. still remains unsigned after odd season with Chargers
Despite being one of the most promising young cornerbacks in free agency, Samuel remains unsigned as the league turns its attention to the 2025 NFL Draft. Samuel will likely remain unsigned through the NFL Draft as he won't count toward a compensatory pick if he is signed afterward.
Samuel would have netted himself a significant contract if he had the kind of season fans were expecting in 2025. With limited resources to go around, Samuel has now been pigeonholed into a one-year prove-it deal with the hopes of cashing out next offseason.
Who that team will be remains to be seen. The Chargers signed two cornerbacks this offseason and could draft another. It is safe to say the Chargers have already closed that door.