LOS ANGELES — 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 Wednesday.
Writing that he was "finally going to put myself first for once," Adderley mentioned his health and a desire to spend more time with loved ones as motivation.
"I believe I have yet to scratch the surface of the player I could be," he wrote, "but if it's at the expense of my peace of mind then it's no longer for me."
The Chargers took Adderley with the 60th overall pick four years ago. He played collegiately 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 appeared in over the last three seasons.
In 2022, Adderley struggled at times and was benched in favor of Alohi Gilman at one point. He played only two defensive snaps in the Chargers' AFC wild-card playoff loss at Jacksonville.
Gilman is the primary option to replace Adderley, with free agency still ongoing. Former Rams safety John Johnson III is a free agent and has been linked to discussions with the Chargers.
