Friday afternoon, the Rams and safety Eric Weddle agreed to terms on a two-year deal. The deal has a base value of $10.5 million, but can be worth up to $12.5 million with incentives. This makes the second offseason in a row in which the Rams have signed a veteran playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. With the addition of Weddle, the Rams’ star-studded defense has improved from their NFC Champion roster.
Welcome back to SoCal, @weddlesbeard! #LARams + Eric Weddle agree to terms on a two-year deal ? » https://t.co/ul8lY6JCvC
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) March 8, 2019
The #Rams have agreed to terms on a 2-year deal with Pro Bowl S Eric Weddle worth up to $12.5M, source said. $10.5M base. He considered retirement, but quickly landed… back on the field.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2019
RAMS!!!!!!!!!!!
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) March 9, 2019
The 2007 second round draft pick has had a very productive career. The six-time pro bowler was drafted by the San Diego Chargers and spent nine seasons with the team. After Weddle’s relationship with the Chargers’ front office become strained, he decided to move on to Baltimore. In three seasons with Baltimore, Weddle was selected to three pro bowls. Over Weddle’s twelve-season career, he has totaled 1,067 tackles, 29 interceptions, and 9.5 sacks.
At 34 years old, Weddle briefly considered retirement rather than returning for a 13th season. By signing with the Rams, Weddle shows that he wants to win a championship before he retires. By signing the veteran safety, the Rams have pretty much guaranteed that they are going to let safety LaMarcus Joyner walk in free agency. With a defense that already includes Aaron Donald, Marcus Peters, and Aqib Talib, plus the addition of Weddle’s veteran presence, the Rams are looking to take another run at the title.
