Nasir Adderley: Rookie spotlight on Chargers second-round selection

Tom Telesco and the front office satisfied a vital need for a free safety with the 60th pick in the 2019 NFL draft by taking Delaware’s Nasir Adderley…

The Chargers needed a free safety this year to pair with Derwin James, who wasted no time during his rookie campaign solidifying himself as one of the best safeties in the league. With the 60th pick in the draft, the Chargers got their guy: Nasir Adderley is a playmaking safety who shines with his great ball skills and range, and his ability to seemingly cover the whole field and his versatility to play against the run makes him a perfect fit in Gus Bradley’s scheme.

Adderley was a four-year player at the University of Delaware, where he played corner before moving over to safety his junior year. His sophomore year was his breakout season, recording 49 tackles (two for loss), two interceptions and four pass break ups. His potential shined bright, but was often overlooked due to the weaker conference Delaware played in. He finished his four-year career with 178 tackles (117 solo), seven interceptions and 17 pass breakups. Coming into this year’s draft, Adderley was the highest-ranked safety according to Pro Football Focus.

He’s a gifted playmaker, as shown below, always in the perfect spot and ready to pounce. His above-average football IQ, mixed with his pure strength and speed, gives him the potential to be a true star in this league.

Hey @chargers you are getting a great one!

So many HIGHLIGHTS from @delawarefb's Nasir Adderley#CAAFB pic.twitter.com/Wp9uGFIUDn

— CAA Football (@CAAFootball) April 27, 2019

Adderley is an absolutely perfect fit for the team, even saying so himself on draft night. This Chargers defense is full of studs, and Adderley is going to fit right in with an incredible cast of defensive backs. He, along with James, could quickly become the most dangerous safety duo in the league. Having two guys who can cover so much ground and make endless plays on the ball adds so much to an already great defense. If the other defensive players can stay healthy and the pass rush can perform up to expectations, this defense could very well be one of the best in the NFL.

Adderley is currently out with an undisclosed injury, but hopefully he will be ready by the first day of training camp. If he is healthy and ready for the season, Adderley will be another young and energetic addition to the Chargers’ defense.