Chargers' Jim Harbaugh identifies 'breakout star' flying under radar

Chris Roling | Nov 6, 2024

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh just confirmed something fans have been starting to feel for a while: 

The defense might have a breakout star on its hands. 

Said star is linebacker Daiyan Henley, with Harbaugh telling reporters before Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans the following: "Daiyan Henley, he's a shining star. He's ascending to be a superstar."

Daiyan Henley, a third-round pick by the Chargers in 2023, appeared in 15 games as a rookie but played just 53 snaps while mostly helping on special teams. 

The whole thing has changed for Henley during his soophomre campaign. Over his first eight games, he’s played a whopping 87 percent of the snaps (438) earning him a 68.6 PFF grade in the process, good for a top-45 ranking out of 157. 

It’s not just Harbaugh or grades, either. Here’s what one analyst had to say about Henley’s play so far: 

Daiyan Henley stood out to me when watching the Chargers defense, and his play represents how the entire unit is playing.

Nothing crazy, but constantly in the right position and aware of how the offense is trying to attack. https://t.co/aDgN3Hj9kT

— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) November 6, 2024

Just like that, coordinator Jesse Minter is getting the most out of Henley’s athletic traits and the sophomore is responding in a big way. 

So no, Harbaugh’s coachspeak-type description shouldn’t go ignored. 

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