The already deep 2019 free agent safety class had another name pop up on the list briefly this past week. On Tuesday, the Ravens released safety Eric Weddle, giving him a head start on a crowded market. It didn’t take very long at all for Weddle to cash in after reportedly fielding offers from 11 NFL teams.
Eventually, Weddle signed a two-year deal with the Rams worth $10.5 million. While they likely never had a realistic chance of competing with more cap-rich teams like LA, apparently the Falcons were one of the teams that called. According to Albert Breer at Sports Illustrated, Atlanta and Philadelphia both phoned Weddle’s agent to say they loved him but had only limited roles to offer.
“March 6, morning: Canter has the Giants, Titans, Bucs, Texans, Chiefs and Bears interested in Weddle, with the Falcons and Eagles calling to say they love him, but only had a limited role to offer.”
Given the Falcons’ very limited salary cap situation (they have just $6.7 million to spend) it’s interesting that they decided to pitch Weddle at all.
This report could offer some clue as to Dan Quinn’s plans for the defense as he takes over the unit for 2019. Atlanta’s secondary may get shaken up more than we had anticipated this offseason. Weddle would have been a luxury signing, but even kicking the tires indicates Quinn may be looking to upgrade an already loaded safety position.
