Los Angeles Chargers safety Nasir Adderley announced on Thursday that he was retiring after only playing four seasons in the NFL.
“After a period of self reflection, I have decided it’s time for me to walk away from the game of football,” Adderley wrote on Instagram. “Over the past couple of years I have denied this realization, but I’m finally going to put myself first for once. My health is above anything and everyone around me knows that.”
The 25-year-old athlete was drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. ESPN reported that he recently just became an unrestricted free agent and was not expected to be re-signed.
“Truly over-standing my purpose has given me the confidence knowing I don’t belong [sic] an employee anymore. My purpose involves spending more time with my loved ones, business ownership and chasing my passion of true liberation,” Adderley continued. “With that being said, it has been a dream come true to play in the NFL and have the opportunity to play for the Chargers organization. I believe I have yet to scratch the surface of the player I could be, but if it’s at the expense of my peace of mind then it’s no longer for me.”
Adderley’s retirement comes after Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones warned NFL players last month against taking “pills” and “injections,” claiming that doing so caused him to experience injuries that have left him impaired.
Jones made the remarks while highlighting an NFL tweet from 2015 that showcased his record-setting jump at the NFL combine in 2015.
“Much has changed in 8 years. Today I can’t run or jump because of my injuries sustained playing this game,” Jones tweeted. “DO NOT take the pills they give you. DO NOT take the injections they give you. If you absolutely must, consult an outside doctor to learn the long-term implications.”
“It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee,” he continued. “In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.”
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It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee. In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.
— Byron Jones (@TheByronJones) February 25, 2023