In a move to bolster their cornerback depth, the Los Angeles Chargers have added veteran Eli Apple to their practice squad. The announcement was made by the team on Monday, following the placement of Asante Samuel Jr. on injured reserve over the weekend.
At 29 years old, Apple had been without a team since the beginning of the offseason. Last season, he suited up for the Miami Dolphins, recording 46 tackles, an interception, and nine passes defended in 10 games, with four starts.
Selected as the 10th overall pick by the New York Giants in the 2016 NFL Draft, Apple has accumulated a respectable resume in his eight-year career. Despite never earning a Pro Bowl nod, he has started in 82 games, showcasing his durability and consistency on the field. Apple has also played for the Giants, Saints, Panthers, Bengals, and Dolphins, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability in different defensive schemes.
Throughout his career, Apple has amassed impressive stats, including 381 tackles, seven tackles for loss, six interceptions, three forced fumbles, and 60 passes defended. His experience and playmaking ability will be valuable assets for the Chargers as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
In response to joining the Chargers, Apple expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this team and help in any way I can. I’m looking forward to getting to work and making a positive impact on the field.”
With Apple now in the mix, the Chargers are hopeful that his veteran presence and skills will help fortify their secondary and provide a boost to their defensive unit as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
