San Diego is signing Apple to a practice-squad deal, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Apple played for Miami last year, tallying 46 tackles (37 solo), including 0.5 sacks, and one interception over 10 regular-season games. The veteran cornerback has also had stints with the Giants (twice), New Orleans (twice), Carolina and Cincinnati in his NFL career. Apple will begin his Chargers tenure on the practice squad, but he could be needed for game action as soon as Week 7 if Kristian Fulton (hamstring) and/or Deane Leonard (hamstring) -- both of whom were injured Sunday versus Denver -- are unable to suit up.
Apple recorded 46 tackles (37 solo), 0.5 sacks and nine pass breakups, including one interception, across 10 regular-season appearances with the Dolphins in 2023.
Apple started four games for Miami due to injuries ahead of him at cornerback, filling exactly the role the team expected of him while on a one-year deal. Heading into free agency, he no longer seems like a candidate for an actual starting role in the league, but he offers tangible value as an experienced depth option. The 28-year-old may not be one of the hottest names on the free-agent market, but he should be able to resurface in at least a reserve role for the 2024 campaign.
