Eric Weddle, one of the most respected safeties in recent NFL history, has officially announced his retirement from professional football. After carving out a remarkable 13-season career, culminating in a storybook ending with the Los Angeles Rams, Weddle says goodbye to the game he defined with intelligence, toughness, and passion.
Weddle’s retirement may come as no surprise, given that he had initially retired in 2020 before making an astonishing comeback during the Rams’ 2021 playoff run. However, his final departure from the NFL leaves a lasting legacy that fans, teammates, and opponents alike will not soon forget.
Career Highlights
Drafted in the second round (37th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, Weddle quickly became the anchor of their defense. After nearly a decade in San Diego, he took his talents to the Baltimore Ravens, where he earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections. His final chapter with the Los Angeles Rams may have been brief, but it was nothing short of dramatic.
Here are just a few of Eric Weddle’s career accomplishments:
- 6-time Pro Bowler – 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
- 2-time First-Team All-Pro – 2011, 2014
- Career totals of 1,179 tackles, 98 pass deflections, and 29 interceptions
Weddle was widely respected not only for his stats but also for his leadership and deep understanding of the game. His reputation as a “quarterback of the defense” was well-earned, often seen reading offensive plays before they happened.
The Unexpected Comeback
After signing with the Rams in 2019 and retiring in early 2020, few expected to see Weddle back on an NFL field. But when injuries decimated the Rams’ secondary in January 2022, Weddle received a call—and responded in heroic fashion. Despite being away from competitive football for nearly two full seasons, he joined the team during their playoff run and ended up playing every defensive snap in Super Bowl LVI.
“I’d been out of the league, coaching my kids, working out regularly but never thought I’d be asked to come back,” Weddle said. “But I couldn’t say no. This team, this opportunity—it was once in a lifetime.”
In the Super Bowl against the Cincinnati Bengals, Weddle not only contributed significantly but played through a torn pectoral muscle, showcasing the grit and selflessness that defined his career. Shortly after hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, he confirmed he would be stepping away from the game for good.
Legacy and Impact
Weddle’s influence goes beyond statistics. Coaches often praised his mental approach to the game, and younger players looked up to his preparation habits and football IQ. Throughout his career, Weddle became the prototype for what a modern safety should be: versatile, vocal, and relentlessly driven.
Off the field, Weddle is known for his humility and devotion to his family. He expressed excitement about spending more time with his wife and children and has future aspirations that may include coaching or pursuing other ventures within sports leadership.
“Football gave me everything, but I’m ready for the next chapter,” Weddle noted. “I leave the game with no regrets and full of gratitude.”
What’s Next?
Although he’s hanging up his cleats for good this time, Weddle’s football journey may not be entirely over. Known for his ability to communicate and relate to players, many insiders believe a coaching career could be a natural next step.
For now, though, Weddle is celebrating a rare feat: riding off into the sunset as a champion. His passion for the sport, deep understanding of defensive schemes, and undeniable impact on the field make him a likely future Hall of Fame candidate.
As fans reflect on his career, one thing is clear—Eric Weddle’s name will be remembered for years to come.
Whether it was his signature beard, his on-field bravado, or his relentless competitiveness, Weddle left an imprint on the NFL that extends beyond his stats. He exits the game not just as a champion, but as a legend.