Should Chargers Consider Bringing Back S Nasir Adderley?

After being released by the Indianapolis Colts this past weekend, should the Los Angeles Chargers consider bringing back old friend and former 2019 second-round pick Nasir Adderley as he attempts an NFL return after stepping away from football at age 25 to focus on his health, family and life after the game?

Three years later, Adderley says he is proud of his personal growth and ready to return to the brotherhood and competitiveness of football, and a return to the Bolts could make sense.

The 28-year-old started 44 games over his four-year tenure with the Chargers, recording 232 total tackles (168 solo), 12 pass breakups, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and half a sack. He also chipped in on special teams with 14 kickoffs returned for 366 yards and a long of 76.

Adderley is a product of the University of Delaware and a Philadelphia native. In four years with the Blue Hens, he posted 265 total tackles (165 solo), 33 pass breakups, 11 interceptions, 9.5 tackles for loss, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and half a sack in 45 games. He returned 35 kicks for 863 yards (long of 92) and a touchdown, along with two punts for 19 yards.

After playing cornerback during his freshman and sophomore seasons, Adderley made the switch to safety as a junior and was eventually named a two-time first-team All-CAA selection in 2017 and 2018. 

He is also the cousin of Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Herb Adderley, a four-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl selection for the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys who won three Super Bowls over his 12-year NFL career.

This is a situation the Chargers should jump right on. As a veteran defensive back with starting experience and positional versatility, Adderley could provide valuable competition throughout training camp while bringing leadership to the secondary. Teams are always searching for experienced players capable of mentoring younger talent, contributing on special teams and providing dependable depth in the defensive backfield.

If Adderley proves he hasn’t missed a step since stepping away from football, he could work his way back onto the 53-man roster and carve out a meaningful role once again—or at the very least earn a practice squad opportunity with a strong preseason showing. His familiarity with the organization, former teammates and expectations within the building could also help ease his transition back into football.