2019 Los Angeles Rams roster preview: S Eric Weddle straddles fiddle in the middle of padded paddle battle...at least a little

Much like Los Angeles Rams LT Andrew Whitworth, S Eric Weddle is a teacher not only for his respective position but for his respective side of the football. In the twilight of his career, his knowledge about the safety position and the fine points of defensive football may be just as important as his production on the field.

Roster battle

Weddle faces few, if any, challenges at free safety. S John Johnson III will play the strong safety role; the two are bound to be a dynamic pair in the defensive backfield. 2019 NFL Draft second-round pick Taylor Rapp (roster preview) will rotate in, but we’ll have to see how Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips balances their playing time.

It’s likely that S Marqui Christian (roster preview) will be the No. 2 at free behind Weddle for the rest of the season.

Expectations

At 34 years old, Weddle is still going to be a solid asset at free safety and will likely improve the Rams pass defense. Weddle is well-known for his football IQ. He is a player who makes sure his guys are lined up in the correct spot and makes sure to alert them of any hints of what is to come from the offense.

He won’t be threatened by the depth at the position in Nick Scott(roster preview), Jake Gervase (roster preview), Steven Parker (roster preview) and Travin Howard (roster preview).

Chances of making the roster (10/10)

It’s a no-brainer. Weddle will improve an already talented defensive backfield that includes Johnson, CB Marcus Peters and CB Aqib Talib.