Rams safety Eric Weddle retires at age 35

Eric Weddle (Google Images)

Los Angeles Rams safety Eric Weddle of Fontana, California retired on Thursday at the age of 35 according to TSN. Weddle had been with the Rams for the 2019 National Football League season after signing a two year contract worth $10.5 million. In an interesting decision, Weddle decided to retire after only one year of his two year deal.

In 2019, Weddle played all 16 games for the Rams. He had 69 solo tackles and one tackle for a loss. Weddle also assisted in 39 other Rams tackles.

Throughout Weddle’s career, he played nine seasons with the San Diego Chargers (2007 to 2015) and three seasons with the Ravens (2016 to 2018). While with the Ravens, Weddle also played some defensive back.

In 2011, Weddle led the NFL with seven interceptions. In all, he had 29 career interceptions (19 with the Chargers and 10 with the Ravens). Weddle also had 903 career solo tackles, eight forced fumbles and 9.5 sacks.

Five times Weddle found his way into the end zone. Four times on interceptions for a touchdown and once on a fumble return for a major score. In 2008, Weddle was one of 33 players in the NFL to have one fumble return for a touchdown to lead the league.

Six times Weddle went to the Pro Bowl. He represented the Chargers in 2011, 2013 and 2014, and Ravens in 2016, 2017 and 2018. Weddle was also an all-pro with the Chargers in 2011 and 2014.

Once in Weddle’s career he was the AFC Defensive Player of the Week. That happened in week 13 of the 2017 NFL regular season. In a 44-20 Ravens win over the Detroit Lions, Weddle had a 45 yard interception for a touchdown, one forced fumble and two solo tackles.