Nasir Adderley, a 2019 second-round pick who started the last three seasons for the Chargers, announced his retirement Thursday on social media.
The 25-year-old safety became an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday.
Writing that “I was finally going to put myself first for once”, Adderley cited her health and a desire to spend more time with loved ones as motivation.
“I think I have yet to scratch the surface of the player he could be,” he wrote, “but if it’s at the expense of my peace of mind, then he’s not for me anymore.”
The Chargers selected Adderley with the 60th overall pick four years ago. He played at the college level at Delaware.
After injuries limited him to four games as a rookie, Adderley emerged as a starter in 2020. He started 44 of the 46 games he’s appeared in over the past three seasons.
In 2022, Adderley struggled at times and was benched in favor of Alohi Gilman at one point. He played just two defensive snaps in the Chargers’ AFC wild-card playoff loss in Jacksonville.
Gilman is the top choice to replace Adderley, with free agency still underway. Former Rams safety John Johnson III is a free agent and has been linked to discussions with the Chargers.