LA Rams to DB Eric Weddle: “You can call this one”

Imagine your reaction if someone had told you at the beginning of the year if someone told you that formerly retired safety Eric Weddle would be calling the LA Rams defense in Super Bowl LVI? Well, whether the twist of some diabolical plot or the warm glow of positivity, that is what is taking place.

Let’s not confuse the motivation here. When veteran defensive back Eric Weddle retired after the 2019 NFL season, there were plenty of reasons why that decision was made. But at no time did Weddle feel that he could no longer contribute at the safety position for an NFL team. Quite the contrary, he was still in the mindset that he could start.

That didn’t fit the reality for the LA Rams plans, however, as the team had rookie Taylor Rapp returning after starting, and veteran John Johnson III returning from IR.  That all but shut the door on Weddle, who gracefully retired and ended the debate of should he start before it began.

Put me in coach, I’m ready to play

But that same “I can start” mindset is what attracted LA Rams defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, to invite him back to the team. At first, the thought seemed to be for a cameo role, a sparse snap count to help the team’s shallow depth sustain a workable rotation.

But the defense quickly discovered that Weddle brought more than a pulse and a fresh set of legs. He brought a hunger, a desire to hoist the Lombardi. He also brought a willingness to do what it takes to earn that Super Bowl ring.

So far, Weddle has shown up and delivered exactly what the LA Rams have so desperately needed in the secondary. Not only has he played well, but he has a fire in him that is not easily extinguished.

With the LA Rams secondary likely welcoming back DB Taylor Rapp in some capacity, the decision has been made to give veteran DB Eric Weddle the nod to call the defensive plays. That will be reflected by Weddle wearing the green dot on his helmet. While minor to some, the decision to give a guy who was still retired just weeks ago the responsibility of calling the Rams defense in Super Bowl LVI is huge.

But make no mistake, Eric Weddle has earned that role. He is just one game away from hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. After that? He will be ready to retire, for good this time.