2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Eric Weddle

Nov 16, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers free safety Eric Weddle (32) gestures during the second quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The demand for playmaking safeties has become so high that teams have begun to draft cornerbacks specifically for the purpose of moving them to that position.  It makes San Diego Chargers fans cherish what they have in Pro Bowler Eric Weddle who now may be considered one of the three best at his position in the league.  How will that impact him in 2016 NFL free agency?

• Age:  30
• 114 tackles
• 2 forced fumbles
• 1 interception
• 8 passes defended
• 3x Pro Bowler

He’s not big enough, strong enough or fast enough but apparently that means little to a guy like Weddle.  Using what ability he has combined with smarts and keen instincts he has developed into a star over the years.  He missed just four games in eight seasons and hasn’t missed time since 2009.  There is no reason to think he’s in danger of falling off a cliff in terms of production.

Put simply he has plenty of bargaining power with the Chargers, who undoubtedly have no wish to let him reach the open market.

There is almost certain to be high demand for him and plenty of teams willing to pay good money to secure the back end of their defense.  That means San Diego has two choices short of letting him walk:  pay his price (or close to it) or use the franchise tag.  Either way he’ll get a hefty pay day.  The problem is how with the Bolts balance that with their other big contract problem in Philip Rivers.

Can they find a way to extend both?

Likeliest Outcome:  Signs extension before end of season