The Los Angeles Rams had their playoff hopes dashed in heartbreaking fashion against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16.
It was a bitter ending to a disappointing 2019 NFL season and not the one that was expected by the veterans that had thought they were joining a playoff contender in the offseason. Among the notable additions Los Angeles made to their defense was safety Eric Weddle.
The Rams will need to make some significant adjustments if they hope to spark a potential resurgence next year. It seems Weddle is aware that he may not be a part of it.
Weddle got emotional when addressing the prospect of the season finale against the Arizona Cardinals being his last game his career, via Gary Klein of the L.A. Times:
“I know how teams go, and organizations, and to go in that direction like that makes sense to not keep the old guy around,” he said. “Like that’s the reality. If I’m the GM.
“I’m smart. I know how those things work , so I’m just enjoying this week and whatever the decision — whether it’s me or them — it’s all good.”
Weddle added that retirement will not be too bad since he will be able to stay at home with his family:
“And if it is, I’m ready for the next step of being at home with my kids,” said Weddle, who has resided near the Rams’ facility while his family stayed in San Diego County. “I’ve missed them dearly for the last six months, so I’m excited to see them.”
Weddle’s comments are certainly understandable considering he has spent plenty of time away from his loved ones throughout his 13-year career. Although there is no question he was fully prepared for a deep playoff run in Los Angeles, the disappointing ending to the year could give him an early start trying to make up for the lost time.
The veteran played a key role in the Rams’ defense and was even named a captain in his first season with the team showing that he had made quite the impression. While Weddle largely struggled to make a significant impact, his experience served as a stabilizing factor for a secondary that experienced plenty of changes during the 2019 campaign.
Weddle also understands that Los Angeles already has two promising safeties in John Johnson III and Taylor Rapp. Regardless, it is clear he is looking to end the year on a high note against Arizona in Week 17.
