Colts Sign Former Chargers Safety Nasir Adderley

Adderley returns to NFL after 3-year retirement

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:33pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp geometric planes of navy, gold, and crimson red colors overlapping to create a dynamic, energetic visual representation of the sport.The Colts' signing of veteran safety Nasir Adderley represents an opportunity for both player and team to revive their fortunes through a creative, unconventional approach.Indianapolis Today

The Indianapolis Colts have signed free agent safety Nasir Adderley, who previously played four seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers from 2019 to 2022 before retiring for the past three years.

Why it matters

The Colts lost starting safety Nick Cross to free agency, so Adderley's signing provides depth and experience to their secondary as they look to improve on a 4-12-1 season.

The details

Adderley, a second-round draft pick out of Delaware in 2019, started 44 games for the Chargers over his final three seasons, recording 232 tackles, 12 passes defended, and 3 interceptions. At 28 years old, he'll look to regain his starting form and help solidify the Colts' defensive backfield.

  • Adderley signed with the Colts on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
  • Adderley last played in the NFL with the Chargers in the 2022 season.

The players

Nasir Adderley

A 28-year-old safety who was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2019 and played four seasons with the team before retiring for the past three years.

Nick Cross

A starting safety for the Colts over the past two seasons who left the team in free agency to join the Washington Commanders.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a veteran presence like Nasir to our secondary. His experience and playmaking ability will be a great asset as we look to improve our defense this season.”

— Chris Ballard, Colts General Manager

What’s next

Adderley will look to earn a starting role in the Colts' defense during training camp and the preseason as he aims to re-establish himself in the NFL after his three-year retirement.

The takeaway

The Colts are hoping Adderley can provide a veteran presence and playmaking ability to their secondary as they try to bounce back from a disappointing 4-12-1 season. His signing represents a low-risk, high-upside move as the team looks to rebuild its defense.