Charger Chat transcript: Eric Weddle

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Sunday, Apr 29, 2007 , Chargers.com

After driving to San Diego from his Rancho Cucamonga home Sunday morning, Eric Weddle was escorted from one interview to another as everyone wanted to get to know the newest member of the Chargers secondary. In the midst of it all, he took some time to join Chargers.com for a chat.

chrg0708:How do you feel being drafted by a team that was 14-2 last season?

Eric: I'm still in shock a little coming to a great organization and a great team. I'm just ready to get to work, earn my way and win the respect of my teammates.

SBF: Eric, the Charger DB’s spend a lot of time doing film study together. What insights do you feel you'll be able to provide in those discussions?

Eric: Just the ins and outs of a defense. I pride myself on knowing everyone's positions and responsibilities. It's going to be more them giving me help as I catch on and join this group.

chrg0708: What are you going to bring to this team?

Eric: Work ethic, accountability...a guy that will do anything the team needs whether it’s special teams or defense. I'm going to be a guy you can count on.

UtahUtes32:Eric, greetings from Salt Lake City! Thanks for four great years here and now on to a long career in San Diego! Best to your mom & dad too.

Eric: I know there are a ton of Utes fans in here. Thanks for the support. You guys make sure and keep track of me as a pro, too!

Myinnerself: How does it feel to be joining what many consider to be the most talented team in the NFL, and for that team to give up 4 draft picks to acquire you?

Eric: It's a huge honor to come to a great football team. They gave up a lot of get me and that gives me motivation to prove to everyone – Dean, fans, coaches, AJ, - that they made the right decision.

gangsta1904: Have you been a chargers fan your whole life?

Eric: I followed the Chargers really closely because when the Rams left LA they were closest to home. Also a big Cowboys fan growing up.

Utedaddy: Utah/Chargers fan here...couldn't be happier for you. Obviously the talent level is going to be much higher in the NFL, what do you think you need to work on the most to contribute right away?

Eric: I need to learn the defense inside and out and adapt to the NFL style.

WeddleIsMyHero: Eric, Calvin Johnson has said that the defender he'd LEAST like to be matched up against is you. Do you look forward to this potential matchup week 15?

Eric: Going against him was quite a challenge. I had to bring my A+ game. People doubted me a little going into the game but I had a pretty good showing. I really look forward to playing him again in December.

chrg0708: How is your family taking all of this?

Eric: They're excited. They cried a lot. My family is in East LA so they can come down for every home game. It's going to be great having them here.

Utedaddy: Chargers/Ute fan here...couldn't be happier for you. For those that did not get the opportunity to watch you for four years, who do you think your game emulates in the NFL?

Eric: I'd like to think I'm like Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu just because they do so many different things in their defense.

WeddleIsMyHero: Eric..Have the coaches taught you this rule? "Remember..Don't touch LT In practice!"

Eric: Yeah, I’ve heard about that one. Don't worry, I won't!

Montana_Thunder: How did you spend your draft day? Does it make you that much hungrier that Reggie Nelson and Merriweather were picked before you?

Eric: I went golfing with my dad yesterday morning and then hung out at home with the family. There were four safeties in round 1 and I'd love to prove that I belong that those guys.

Eric Okay guys, I've got to go down for a press conference. Thanks so much for joining us. I'm so glad to be a Charger! I'm not going to let you guys down. I'll prove I was worth the pick.

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