First the beard and now the Chargers. Eric Weddle has recently said goodbye to two things that defined him.
The former San Diego Chargers safety will sign with the Baltimore Ravens, NBC 7 learned Monday.
The NFL reports Weddle will sign a four-year deal worth $26 million. Other reports estimate the contract at $29 million.
Weddle himself posted an update to Twitter that reads, "RAVEN BOUND!!!!!!!!!"
On February 2, Weddle shaved off the iconic beard that had become a huge part of his personality and image.
Now, Weddle leaves behind the San Diego Chargers, the only NFL team he has ever known.
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The Chargers drafted Weddle in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft. In nine seasons with the Chargers, Weddle made five All Pro teams and emerged as a team leader.
Off the field, Weddle was the face of the Chargers defense and one of the team's most popular players.
While Weddle’s relationship with Charger fans was strong, his relationship with the Chargers organization ended on bad terms.
Controversy plagued Weddle’s last season in San Diego. A contract dispute, injuries and verbal sparring were common talking points, overshadowing Weddle’s play on the field. The 2015 season ended with the Chargers placing Weddle on injured reserve and not allowing him to travel with the team to Denver for the season finale.
NBC 7 SportsWrap reporter Derek Togerson tweeted that Weddle has always been a pro.
The 31-year-old Weddle, is expected to start at free safety for the Ravens.
Baltimore missed the playoffs last season, finishing the 2015 season with a 5 wins and 11 losses.
The Chargers and Ravens are not scheduled to play each other this coming season.
With Weddle gone, who will replace him at free safety for the Chargers? Recently, the Chargers signed Dwight Lowery from the Indianapolis Colts. The Chargers may also address the safety position in the NFL Draft April 28 through the 30.
