Nasir Adderley Attempting NFL Comeback

Health was cited as one of the main reasons why Adderley ended his career. No indications emerged over a notable period of time that he was contemplating a return to football. That recently changed.

“It’s now been three years since I left the NFL, and I am extremely happy with my development,” Adderley wrote in an Instagram post. “Health, family, and entrepreneurship were my top priorities, and I’m proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish. The freedom to manage my own schedule was very important to me, but what I didn’t realize was how much I’d miss having football in my life. The competition, the brotherhood, and just being involved in the game that means so much to me and my family.

“Therefore, I am officially announcing my intention to return to the NFL.”

During his rookie season, Adderley only made four appearances and was not a defensive regular. The former second-rounder was a full-time starter for his final three years with the Chargers, though. Over that span, Adderley totaled 230 tackles, three interceptions and 12 pass deflections. Coverage was a sore spot in 2020 and ’21, but the Florida State product delivered much better production in that regard during his final season.

At the age of 28, Adderley could be seen as a free agent with more upside than some of the other options on the market. Of course, the length of his absence will no doubt lead to offers along the lines of a one-year, ‘prove-it’ contract. A different Chargers regime is in place than the one which drafted him, so Adderley could easily find himself playing on a new team in 2026 provided he lands an NFL gig.