Eric Weems: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|American football player (born 1985)}} |
{{Short description|American football player (born 1985)}} |
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{{Use |
{{Use American English|date=September 2023}} |
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{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2023}} |
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{{Infobox NFL |
{{Infobox NFL biography |
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|name=Eric Weems |
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| name = Eric Weems |
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| image = Eric Weems Falcons 2016.JPG |
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|image_size= |
| image_size = |
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|alt= |
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| alt = |
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|caption=Weems with the Falcons in 2016 |
| caption = Weems with the Falcons in 2016 |
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|current_team= |
| current_team = |
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|number=14 |
| number = 14 |
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|position=[[Wide receiver]] |
| position = [[Wide receiver]], [[return specialist]] |
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|birth_date={{Birth date and age|1985|7|4|mf=y}} |
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1985|7|4|mf=y}} |
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|birth_place=[[Daytona Beach, Florida]], U.S. |
| birth_place = [[Daytona Beach, Florida]], U.S. |
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|death_date= |
| death_date = |
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|death_place= |
| death_place = |
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|height_ft=5 |
| height_ft = 5 |
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|height_in=9 |
| height_in = 9 |
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|weight_lbs=195 |
| weight_lbs = 195 |
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|high_school=[[Seabreeze High School|Seabreeze]] |
| high_school = [[Seabreeze High School|Seabreeze]] {{nowrap|(Daytona Beach)}} |
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|college=[[Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football|Bethune–Cookman]] |
| college = [[Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football|Bethune–Cookman]] |
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|undraftedyear=2007 |
| undraftedyear = 2007 |
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|pastteams= |
| pastteams = |
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* [[Atlanta Falcons]] ({{NFL Year|2007}}–{{NFL Year|2011}}) |
* [[Atlanta Falcons]] ({{NFL Year|2007}}–{{NFL Year|2011}}) |
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* [[Chicago Bears]] ({{NFL Year|2012}}–{{NFL Year|2013}}) |
* [[Chicago Bears]] ({{NFL Year|2012}}–{{NFL Year|2013}}) |
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* Atlanta Falcons ({{NFL Year|2014}}–{{NFL Year|2016}}) |
* Atlanta Falcons ({{NFL Year|2014}}–{{NFL Year|2016}}) |
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* [[Tennessee Titans]] ({{NFL Year|2017}}) |
* [[Tennessee Titans]] ({{NFL Year|2017}}) |
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|pastteamsnote= |
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* First-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2010 All-Pro Team|2010]]) |
* First-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2010 All-Pro Team|2010]]) |
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* [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2011 Pro Bowl|2010]]) |
* [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2011 Pro Bowl|2010]]) |
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|statweek= |
| statweek = |
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|statseason= |
| statseason = |
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|statlabel1=[[Reception (American football)|Receptions]] |
| statlabel1 = [[Reception (American football)|Receptions]] |
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|statvalue1=39 |
| statvalue1 = 39 |
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|statlabel2=[[Receiving yards]] |
| statlabel2 = [[Receiving yards]] |
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|statvalue2=358 |
| statvalue2 = 358 |
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|statlabel3=[[Rushing yards]] |
| statlabel3 = [[Rushing yards]] |
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|statvalue3=57 |
| statvalue3 = 57 |
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|statlabel4=[[Return yards]] |
| statlabel4 = [[Return yards]] |
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|statvalue4=5,354 |
| statvalue4 = 5,354 |
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|statlabel5=[[Touchdown|Total touchdowns]] |
| statlabel5 = [[Touchdown|Total touchdowns]] |
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|statvalue5=6 |
| statvalue5 = 6 |
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|nfl=eric-weems |
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}} |
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'''Eric Grimes Weems''' (born July 4, 1985) is |
'''Eric Grimes Weems''' (born July 4, 1985) is an American former professional [[American football|football]] player who was a [[wide receiver]], [[special teamer]], and [[return specialist]] in the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] for the [[Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football|Bethune–Cookman Wildcats]] and was signed by the [[Atlanta Falcons]] as an [[undrafted free agent]] in 2007. He also played for the [[Chicago Bears]] and [[Tennessee Titans]]. |
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==Early |
==Early life== |
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Weems attended [[Seabreeze High School]] in [[Daytona Beach, Florida]] and was a letterman in [[high school football|football]] and basketball.<ref>{{Cite web | |
Weems attended [[Seabreeze High School]] in [[Daytona Beach, Florida]] and was a letterman in [[high school football|football]] and basketball.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 30, 2007 |title=Remorse earns break for player |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-xpm-2007-05-30-vweems30-story.html |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=Orlando Sentinel |language=en-US}}</ref> In football, as a senior, he was named the team M.V.P. and was an All-Area selection and an All-State selection. In basketball, he was an All-Area selection.{{citation needed|date=May 2023}} |
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==College career== |
==College career== |
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While attending [[Bethune-Cookman University]] in his hometown of [[Daytona Beach, Florida]], Weems was a stand-out wide receiver/A-back for the [[Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football]] team. He played under head coach [[Alvin Wyatt]] from 2003 to 2007. Weems left with his name in the records for numerous receiving categories throughout his four-year career at Bethune-Cookman. In his senior year, he added special teams to his portfolio, serving as the kickoff and punt return specialist for the Wildcats.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems NCAA FB Stats - Season & Career Statistics |url=https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/eric-weems-player-stats |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Fox Sports |language=en-US}}</ref> |
While attending [[Bethune-Cookman University]] in his hometown of [[Daytona Beach, Florida]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dean |first=Zach |date=January 12, 2018 |title=Ex-Seabreeze, B-CU star Eric Weems embracing new role, searching for first ring |url=https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/01/12/ex-seabreeze-b-cu-star-eric-weems-embracing-new-role-searching-for-first-ring/16281529007/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kernan |first=Sean |date=September 26, 2011 |title=Falcons Pro-Bowl returner Eric Weems keeps everything in perspective |url=https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/2011/09/26/falcons-pro-bowl-returner-eric-weems-keeps-everything-in-perspective/30589041007/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 2, 2007 |title=Eric Weems Signs Free Agent Contract with Atlanta Falcons |url=https://bcuathletics.com/news/2007/5/2/eric_weems_signs_free_agent_contract_with_atlanta_falcons |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=Bethune-Cookman University Athletics |language=en}}</ref> Weems was a stand-out wide receiver/A-back for the [[Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football]] team. He played under head coach [[Alvin Wyatt]] from 2003 to 2007. Weems left with his name in the records for numerous receiving categories throughout his four-year career at Bethune-Cookman. In his senior year, he added special teams to his portfolio, serving as the kickoff and punt return specialist for the Wildcats.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems NCAA FB Stats - Season & Career Statistics |url=https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/eric-weems-player-stats |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Fox Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102013030/https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/eric-weems-player-stats |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==Professional career== |
==Professional career== |
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===Atlanta Falcons=== |
===Atlanta Falcons (first stint)=== |
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====2007 season==== |
====2007 season==== |
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Weems saw action in the NFL for the first time in the season finale against the [[Seattle Seahawks]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons - December 30th, 2007 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200712300atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
Weems saw action in the NFL for the first time in the season finale against the [[2007 Seattle Seahawks|Seattle Seahawks]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons - December 30th, 2007 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200712300atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102084909/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200712300atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> He did not post any statistics.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2007 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2007/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=June 30, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630112547/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2007/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====2008 season==== |
====2008 season==== |
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Weems's first career reception came with a 4-yard catch in the first quarter of the Falcons' week 12 match-up against the [[Carolina Panthers]]. Later in the same game, Weems provided a key block for a 7-yard [[Harry Douglas]] touchdown run.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons - November 23rd, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811230atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
Weems's first career reception came with a 4-yard catch in the first quarter of the Falcons' week 12 match-up against the [[2008 Carolina Panthers|Carolina Panthers]]. Later in the same game, Weems provided a key block for a 7-yard [[Harry Douglas]] touchdown run.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons - November 23rd, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811230atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=November 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201117041821/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811230atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> His first career fumble recovery came on a [[2008 Minnesota Vikings|Minnesota Vikings]] muffed punt in week 16 of the 2008 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings - December 21st, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200812210min.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102084912/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200812210min.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====2009 season==== |
====2009 season==== |
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[[File:Jenkins, Baker, Weems and Booker.png|right|thumb|Eric Weems with [[Sam Baker (offensive tackle)|Sam Baker]], [[Michael Jenkins (wide receiver)|Michael Jenkins]] and [[Marty Booker]].]][[File:Eric Weems.jpg|left|thumb|Eric Weems playing against the Miami Dolphins in 2009.]] |
[[File:Jenkins, Baker, Weems and Booker.png|right|thumb|Eric Weems with [[Sam Baker (offensive tackle)|Sam Baker]], [[Michael Jenkins (wide receiver)|Michael Jenkins]] and [[Marty Booker]].]] [[File:Eric Weems.jpg|left|thumb|Eric Weems playing against the Miami Dolphins in 2009.]] |
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Weems won a job with the Atlanta Falcons as a punt returner in 2009 when wide receiver [[Harry Douglas]] was placed on the injured reserved list with a season ending knee injury. Weems ended up returning both punts and kicks as the season progressed. |
Weems won a job with the Atlanta Falcons as a punt returner in 2009 when wide receiver [[Harry Douglas]] was placed on the injured reserved list with a season ending knee injury. Weems ended up returning both punts and kicks as the season progressed. |
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Weems scored his first career touchdown against the [[Dallas Cowboys]] in Week 7 of the 2009 season, he caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from quarterback [[Matt Ryan (American football)|Matt Ryan]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys - October 25th, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200910250dal.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
Weems scored his first career touchdown against the [[2009 Dallas Cowboys|Dallas Cowboys]] in Week 7 of the 2009 season, he caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from quarterback [[Matt Ryan (American football)|Matt Ryan]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys - October 25th, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200910250dal.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=December 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224101342/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200910250dal.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems scored his second career touchdown against the [[2009 New York Giants|New York Giants]] in Week 11 of the 2009 season, he had a 4-yard touchdown reception.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at New York Giants - November 22nd, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200911220nyg.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014307/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200911220nyg.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On the night of November 16, 2009, Weems was arrested in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Shortly afterward, Weems released a statement saying “Unfortunately, I was involved in an incident on November 17, 2009. I am embarrassed about the situation and I sincerely apologize to the entire Atlanta Falcons organization and our great fans.” No specific action was taken by the Atlanta Falcons or the NFL. |
On the night of November 16, 2009, Weems was arrested in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Shortly afterward, Weems released a statement saying “Unfortunately, I was involved in an incident on November 17, 2009. I am embarrassed about the situation and I sincerely apologize to the entire Atlanta Falcons organization and our great fans.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 16, 2009 |title=More trouble for Falcons: Weems was arrested for DUI last month |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/more-trouble-for-falcons-weems-was-arrested-for-dui-last-month-09000d5d81505eab |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=NFL.com |language=en-US |archive-date=August 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812221300/https://www.nfl.com/news/more-trouble-for-falcons-weems-was-arrested-for-dui-last-month-09000d5d81505eab |url-status=live }}</ref> No specific action was taken by the Atlanta Falcons or the NFL. |
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Weems finished the 2009 season with |
Weems finished the 2009 season with six catches for 50 yards and two touchdowns. He rushed eight times for 53 yards. Weems returned 48 kicks for 1214 yards and 27 punts for 270 yards, fumbled three times and losing two, and recorded 10 tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2009 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2009 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102013038/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2009 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====2010 season==== |
====2010 season==== |
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Weems had a career-high of four catches against the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] in the first week of the 2010 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Pittsburgh Steelers - September 12th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009120pit.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
Weems had a career-high of four catches against the [[2010 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]] in the first week of the 2010 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Pittsburgh Steelers - September 12th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009120pit.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=November 11, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171111094610/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009120pit.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> He had his first career start as a wide receiver against the [[2010 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] in week 2.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons - September 19th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009190atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=December 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224101310/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201009190atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems returned his first career kickoff return for a touchdown against the [[2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] on week 13 of the season. The 102 yards was a franchise record for the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - December 5th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012050tam.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102072759/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012050tam.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> He also returned his first career punt return for a touchdown against the [[2010 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]] on week 17 of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons - January 2nd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101020atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=December 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171224101338/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101020atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> The 55 yards was a career-high. Weems was selected to the [[2011 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams member.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/probowl.htm |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316023404/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/probowl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems finished the 2010 season with six catches for 61 yards. He returned 40 kickoffs for a 1,100 yards with one touchdown. Weems returned 18 punts for 230 yards with one touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2010 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014301/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> He was the only player in the NFC to return a kick and a punt for a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Kick & Punt Returns |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/returns.htm |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=November 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130231507/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/returns.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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⚫ | Weems had a notable contribution for the [[Atlanta Falcons]] in the 2010-2011 NFC [[2010–11 NFL playoffs#NFC: Green Bay Packers 48, Atlanta Falcons 21|Divisional Round]] against the [[2010 Green Bay Packers|Green Bay Packers]]. Early in the second quarter, Weems fielded a kickoff two yards deep in his team's own end zone and ran virtually untouched for 102-yard kickoff return touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons - January 15th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101150atl.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=November 10, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110225258/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101150atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> The 102-yard return was the longest play in NFL postseason history.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 15, 2011 |title=Weems' 102-yard kick return sets NFL playoff mark |url=https://www.twincities.com/2011/01/15/weems-102-yard-kick-return-sets-nfl-playoff-mark/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=Twin Cities |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Weems had a notable contribution for the [[Atlanta Falcons]] in the 2010-2011 NFC |
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====2011 season==== |
====2011 season==== |
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The [[Atlanta Falcons]] re-signed Weems to a one-year contract on July 31, 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Choate |first=Dave |date=July 31, 2011 |title=Eric Weems Returns To The Falcons Special Teams |url=http://www.thefalcoholic.com/2011/7/31/2306696/eric-weems-returns-to-the-falcons-special-teams |access-date=August 17, 2014 |website=TheFalcoholic.com}}</ref> He appeared in all 16 games with the [[Atlanta Falcons]], He made two starts at the wide receiver position. Weems caught a career-high 11 catches for a career-high 90 yards. Weems returned 24 kicks for 563 yards. He also returned 32 punts for 315 Yards. Weems also recorded 12 tackles on special teams. He did not score any touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2011 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
The [[Atlanta Falcons]] re-signed Weems to a one-year contract on July 31, 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Choate |first=Dave |date=July 31, 2011 |title=Eric Weems Returns To The Falcons Special Teams |url=http://www.thefalcoholic.com/2011/7/31/2306696/eric-weems-returns-to-the-falcons-special-teams |access-date=August 17, 2014 |website=TheFalcoholic.com |archive-date=August 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819090711/http://www.thefalcoholic.com/2011/7/31/2306696/eric-weems-returns-to-the-falcons-special-teams |url-status=live }}</ref> He appeared in all 16 games with the [[Atlanta Falcons]], He made two starts at the wide receiver position. Weems caught a career-high 11 catches for a career-high 90 yards. Weems returned 24 kicks for 563 yards. He also returned 32 punts for 315 Yards. Weems also recorded 12 tackles on special teams. He did not score any touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2011 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014309/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Weems was selected as a first-team alternate for the 2012 Pro Bowl as a special teams player.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Birchfield |first=Evan |date=July 4, 2019 |title=Falcons Throwback Thursday: WR Eric Weems |url=https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2019/7/4/18716358/falcons-throwback-thursday-wr-eric-weems |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=The Falcoholic |language=en |archive-date=March 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230324022852/https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2019/7/4/18716358/falcons-throwback-thursday-wr-eric-weems |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Weems was selected as a first-team alternate for the 2012 Pro bowl as a special teams player. |
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Weems returned four kickoffs for an average of 20 yards per kickoff and a long of 27 yards in the NFC [[ |
Weems returned four kickoffs for an average of 20 yards per kickoff and a long of 27 yards in the NFC [[2011–12 NFL playoffs#NFC: New York Giants 24, Atlanta Falcons 2|Wild Card Round game]] against the [[2011 New York Giants|New York Giants]]. He did not record any receptions in the 24–2 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Atlanta Falcons at New York Giants - January 8th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201080nyg.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=August 14, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814020930/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201080nyg.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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===Chicago Bears=== |
===Chicago Bears=== |
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[[File:Eric weems bears.jpg|thumb|Weems at Bears training camp in 2014]] |
[[File:Eric weems bears.jpg|thumb|Weems at Bears training camp in 2014]] |
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On March 14, 2012, Weems signed a three-year contract with the [[Chicago Bears]] as an [[unrestricted free agent]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dickerson |first=Jeff |date=March 14, 2012 |title=Bears agree to deal with Eric Weems |url= |
On March 14, 2012, Weems signed a three-year contract with the [[Chicago Bears]] as an [[unrestricted free agent]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dickerson |first=Jeff |date=March 14, 2012 |title=Bears agree to deal with Eric Weems |url=https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/7685112/chicago-bears-agree-terms-3-year-deal-eric-weems |access-date=August 17, 2014 |website=ESPN.com |archive-date=September 4, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904053130/http://espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/7685112/chicago-bears-agree-terms-3-year-deal-eric-weems |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems played in all 16 games with one start at the wide receiver position. Weems caught 2 balls for only 27 yards. He returned 13 kickoffs for 231 yards and 1 punt for no yards. Weems fumbled once and recovered 2 fumbles during the season. He also made 8 tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2012 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014333/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The Bears finished the season with a record of 10-6 and did not make the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 Chicago Bears Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2012.htm |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=August 5, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130805072618/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2012.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Weems appeared in all 16 games with the Bears in 2013. He recorded only one reception for eight yards. Weems returned five kickoffs for 57 yards. Weems recorded nine tackles in the season and forced one fumble.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2013 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=Pro |
Weems appeared in all 16 games with the Bears in 2013. He recorded only one reception for eight yards. Weems returned five kickoffs for 57 yards. Weems recorded nine tackles in the season and forced one fumble.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2013 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102072955/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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After the Bears signed [[Santonio Holmes]], Weems was released by the team on August 16, 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=August 16, 2014 |title=Santonio Holmes, Chicago Bears reach contract |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000378658/article/santonio-holmes-chicago-bears-reach-contract |access-date=August 16, 2014 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> |
After the Bears signed [[Santonio Holmes]], Weems was released by the team on August 16, 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=August 16, 2014 |title=Santonio Holmes, Chicago Bears reach contract |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000378658/article/santonio-holmes-chicago-bears-reach-contract |access-date=August 16, 2014 |website=NFL.com |archive-date=August 17, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817072940/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000378658/article/santonio-holmes-chicago-bears-reach-contract |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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===Atlanta Falcons (second stint)=== |
===Atlanta Falcons (second stint)=== |
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On August 21, 2014, Weems signed with the Atlanta Falcons.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adams |first=Jay |date=August 21, 2014 |title=Falcons Bring Back WR, Specialist Weems |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Bring-Back-WR-Specialist-Weems/fe9c3d3c-f546-4aa8-96e7-496defb1b184 |access-date=August 24, 2014 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}}</ref> Weems appeared in all 16 regular season games with the Atlanta Falcons in 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2014/ |access-date= |
On August 21, 2014, Weems signed with the Atlanta Falcons.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adams |first=Jay |date=August 21, 2014 |title=Falcons Bring Back WR, Specialist Weems |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Bring-Back-WR-Specialist-Weems/fe9c3d3c-f546-4aa8-96e7-496defb1b184 |access-date=August 24, 2014 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com |archive-date=August 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140823192921/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Bring-Back-WR-Specialist-Weems/fe9c3d3c-f546-4aa8-96e7-496defb1b184 |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems appeared in all 16 regular season games with the Atlanta Falcons in 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2014/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014336/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 5, Weems forced a fumble and recovered a fumble on separate occasions against the [[2014 New York Giants season|New York Giants]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 5, 2014 |title=WR Preston Parker fumbles kickoff return |url=http://www.giants.com/videos/videos/WR-Preston-Parker-fumbles-kickoff-return/c20318b7-623a-4004-a42b-81d94a97cc9c |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331173328/http://www.giants.com/videos/videos/WR-Preston-Parker-fumbles-kickoff-return/c20318b7-623a-4004-a42b-81d94a97cc9c |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=New York Giants}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=October 5, 2014 |title=Quintin Demps fumbles on interception return |url=http://www.giants.com/videos/videos/Quintin-Demps-fumbles-on-interception-return/119de80c-e807-42b9-984f-47a406ec2fab |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=New York Giants |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331173217/http://www.giants.com/videos/videos/Quintin-Demps-fumbles-on-interception-return/119de80c-e807-42b9-984f-47a406ec2fab |url-status=live }}</ref> He caught his first touchdown of the season against the [[2014 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] on December 8.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Kendall |date=December 9, 2014 |title=Falcons come up short, lose 43-37 to Packers |url=https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2014/12/9/7356443/falcons-vs-packers-recap-atlanta-loses-43-37-to-green-bay |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=The Falcoholic |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331174506/https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2014/12/9/7356443/falcons-vs-packers-recap-atlanta-loses-43-37-to-green-bay |url-status=live }}</ref> He then caught his second touchdown two weeks later on December 21, against the [[2014 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freeman |first=Aaron |date=December 22, 2014 |title=Defense Leads Falcons to Sweep Saints in 30-14 Win |url=http://falcfans.com/defense-leads-falcons-to-sweep-saints-in-30-14-win-18232 |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=FalcFans.com |language=en-US |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331114313/http://falcfans.com/defense-leads-falcons-to-sweep-saints-in-30-14-win-18232 |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems caught 10 passes for a career-high 102 yards and two touchdowns. On special teams, he recorded thirteen tackles, two fumble recoveries, a forced fumble, and returned two kicks for 34 yards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems Titans Bio |url=http://prod.static.titans.clubs.nfl.com/assets/docs/Weems_Eric_bio.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331173819/http://prod.static.titans.clubs.nfl.com/assets/docs/Weems_Eric_bio.pdf |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=Tennessee Titans}}</ref> |
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Weems signed a two-year extension with the Falcons on March 6, 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adams |first=Jay |date=March 7, 2015 |title=Falcons Sign Weems to Contract Extension |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Sign-Weems-to-Contract-Extension/3632ba03-f2bd-4ade-aaf1-8b3ed8c73000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402125611/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Sign-Weems-to-Contract-Extension/3632ba03-f2bd-4ade-aaf1-8b3ed8c73000 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |access-date=July 23, 2015 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |date=March 6, 2015 |title=Eric Weems agrees to return to Falcons |url= |
Weems signed a two-year extension with the Falcons on March 6, 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adams |first=Jay |date=March 7, 2015 |title=Falcons Sign Weems to Contract Extension |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Sign-Weems-to-Contract-Extension/3632ba03-f2bd-4ade-aaf1-8b3ed8c73000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402125611/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Falcons-Sign-Weems-to-Contract-Extension/3632ba03-f2bd-4ade-aaf1-8b3ed8c73000 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |access-date=July 23, 2015 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |date=March 6, 2015 |title=Eric Weems agrees to return to Falcons |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/atlanta-falcons/post/_/id/12207/eric-weems-agrees-to-return-to-falcons |access-date=July 23, 2015 |website=ESPN.com |archive-date=July 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724071434/http://espn.go.com/blog/atlanta-falcons/post/_/id/12207/eric-weems-agrees-to-return-to-falcons |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems saw action in all 16 games. He had one reception for 11 yards. Weems returned 15 kicks for 403 yards. He also returned 19 punts for 221 yards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2015 |access-date=January 1, 2018 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=January 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102014331/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In the 2016 season, Weems was part of a record-breaking Falcons team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2016 Atlanta Falcons Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/atl/2016.htm |access-date= |
In the 2016 season, Weems was part of a record-breaking Falcons team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2016 Atlanta Falcons Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/atl/2016.htm |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en |archive-date=August 7, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807022126/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/atl/2016.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> On September 18, 2016, he returned a punt for a career-long 73 yards against the [[2016 Oakland Raiders|Oakland Raiders]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Durkin |first=Jimmy |date=September 19, 2016 |title=Grading the Raiders' 35-28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons |url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2016/09/19/grading-the-raiders-35-28-loss-to-the-atlanta-falcons/ |access-date=March 31, 2018 |website=The Mercury News |language=en-US |archive-date=April 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401003819/https://www.mercurynews.com/2016/09/19/grading-the-raiders-35-28-loss-to-the-atlanta-falcons/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Weems and the Falcons reached [[Super Bowl LI]], where they faced the [[2016 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]]. In the Super Bowl, Weems had two kick returns for 25 total yards and one punt return for no yards. the Falcons fell in a 34–28 overtime defeat.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl LI - New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons - February 5th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201702050atl.htm |access-date=August 6, 2017 |website=[[Pro-Football-Reference.com]] |archive-date=August 7, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807022152/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201702050atl.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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===Tennessee Titans=== |
===Tennessee Titans=== |
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[[File:Eric Weems with Titans.jpg|thumb|Weems with the Titans in 2017]] |
[[File:Eric Weems with Titans.jpg|thumb|Weems with the Titans in 2017]] |
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On March 10, 2017, Weems signed with the [[Tennessee Titans]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gantt, Darin |date=March 10, 2017 |title=Falcons wideout Eric Weems heading to Tennessee |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/10/falcons-wideout-eric-weems-heading-to-tennessee/ |website=ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com}}</ref> He was released on September 2, 2017, but was re-signed the next day.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=September 2, 2017 |title=Titans Down to 53 Players: A Position-by-Position Look |url=http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Down-to-53-Players-A-Position-by-Position-Look/d201b599-31f7-4441-8f65-948795805f04 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180206112407/http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Down-to-53-Players-A-Position-by-Position-Look/d201b599-31f7-4441-8f65-948795805f04 |archive-date=February 6, 2018 |website=TitansOnline.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=September 3, 2017 |title=Titans Add Eric Weems, Place Harry Douglas on IR |url=http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Add-Eric-Weems-Place-Harry-Douglas-on-IR/5825558b-135c-4b85-b17a-83c1bb2adadc |access-date= |
On March 10, 2017, Weems signed with the [[Tennessee Titans]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gantt, Darin |date=March 10, 2017 |title=Falcons wideout Eric Weems heading to Tennessee |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/10/falcons-wideout-eric-weems-heading-to-tennessee/ |website=ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com |access-date=March 11, 2017 |archive-date=March 11, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170311051301/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/10/falcons-wideout-eric-weems-heading-to-tennessee/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He was released on September 2, 2017, but was re-signed the next day.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=September 2, 2017 |title=Titans Down to 53 Players: A Position-by-Position Look |url=http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Down-to-53-Players-A-Position-by-Position-Look/d201b599-31f7-4441-8f65-948795805f04 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180206112407/http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Down-to-53-Players-A-Position-by-Position-Look/d201b599-31f7-4441-8f65-948795805f04 |archive-date=February 6, 2018 |website=TitansOnline.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=September 3, 2017 |title=Titans Add Eric Weems, Place Harry Douglas on IR |url=http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Add-Eric-Weems-Place-Harry-Douglas-on-IR/5825558b-135c-4b85-b17a-83c1bb2adadc |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=TitansOnline.com |archive-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515231722/http://www.titansonline.com/news/article-4/Titans-Add-Eric-Weems-Place-Harry-Douglas-on-IR/5825558b-135c-4b85-b17a-83c1bb2adadc |url-status=live }}</ref> In the 2017 season, Weems mainly played on a special teams role for the Titans.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Weems 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/enwiki/w/WeemEr00/gamelog/2017/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> |
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On March 9, 2018, Weems was released by the Titans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=March 9, 2018 |title=Titans Plan to Release Cassel, Searcy, Weems |url=https://www.titansonline.com/news/titans-plan-to-release-cassel-searcy-weems-20435345 |access-date= |
On March 9, 2018, Weems was released by the Titans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wyatt |first=Jim |date=March 9, 2018 |title=Titans Plan to Release Cassel, Searcy, Weems |url=https://www.titansonline.com/news/titans-plan-to-release-cassel-searcy-weems-20435345 |access-date=May 21, 2023 |website=TitansOnline.com |archive-date=February 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190222152043/https://www.titansonline.com/news/titans-plan-to-release-cassel-searcy-weems-20435345 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==NFL career statistics== |
==NFL career statistics== |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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[[Category:Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football players]] |
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[[Category:Chicago Bears players]] |
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[[Category:Players of American football from Florida]] |
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[[Category:Seabreeze High School alumni]] |
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[[Category:Tennessee Titans players]] |
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Position: | Wide receiver, return specialist | ||||||||||||
Personal information | |||||||||||||
Born: | Daytona Beach, Florida, U.S. | July 4, 1985||||||||||||
Height: | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) | ||||||||||||
Weight: | 195 lb (88 kg) | ||||||||||||
Career information | |||||||||||||
High school: | Seabreeze (Daytona Beach) | ||||||||||||
College: | Bethune–Cookman | ||||||||||||
Undrafted: | 2007 | ||||||||||||
Career history | |||||||||||||
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Eric Grimes Weems (born July 4, 1985) is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver, special teamer, and return specialist in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Bethune–Cookman Wildcats and was signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2007. He also played for the Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans.
Early life
[edit]Weems attended Seabreeze High School in Daytona Beach, Florida and was a letterman in football and basketball.[1] In football, as a senior, he was named the team M.V.P. and was an All-Area selection and an All-State selection. In basketball, he was an All-Area selection.[citation needed]
College career
[edit]While attending Bethune-Cookman University in his hometown of Daytona Beach, Florida,[2][3][4] Weems was a stand-out wide receiver/A-back for the Bethune–Cookman Wildcats football team. He played under head coach Alvin Wyatt from 2003 to 2007. Weems left with his name in the records for numerous receiving categories throughout his four-year career at Bethune-Cookman. In his senior year, he added special teams to his portfolio, serving as the kickoff and punt return specialist for the Wildcats.[5]
Professional career
[edit]Atlanta Falcons (first stint)
[edit]2007 season
[edit]Weems saw action in the NFL for the first time in the season finale against the Seattle Seahawks.[6] He did not post any statistics.[7]
2008 season
[edit]Weems's first career reception came with a 4-yard catch in the first quarter of the Falcons' week 12 match-up against the Carolina Panthers. Later in the same game, Weems provided a key block for a 7-yard Harry Douglas touchdown run.[8] His first career fumble recovery came on a Minnesota Vikings muffed punt in week 16 of the 2008 season.[9]
2009 season
[edit]Weems won a job with the Atlanta Falcons as a punt returner in 2009 when wide receiver Harry Douglas was placed on the injured reserved list with a season ending knee injury. Weems ended up returning both punts and kicks as the season progressed. Weems scored his first career touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 7 of the 2009 season, he caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matt Ryan.[10] Weems scored his second career touchdown against the New York Giants in Week 11 of the 2009 season, he had a 4-yard touchdown reception.[11]
On the night of November 16, 2009, Weems was arrested in DeKalb County, Georgia for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Shortly afterward, Weems released a statement saying “Unfortunately, I was involved in an incident on November 17, 2009. I am embarrassed about the situation and I sincerely apologize to the entire Atlanta Falcons organization and our great fans.”[12] No specific action was taken by the Atlanta Falcons or the NFL.
Weems finished the 2009 season with six catches for 50 yards and two touchdowns. He rushed eight times for 53 yards. Weems returned 48 kicks for 1214 yards and 27 punts for 270 yards, fumbled three times and losing two, and recorded 10 tackles.[13]
2010 season
[edit]Weems had a career-high of four catches against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first week of the 2010 season.[14] He had his first career start as a wide receiver against the Arizona Cardinals in week 2.[15] Weems returned his first career kickoff return for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on week 13 of the season. The 102 yards was a franchise record for the Atlanta Falcons.[16] He also returned his first career punt return for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers on week 17 of the season.[17] The 55 yards was a career-high. Weems was selected to the 2011 Pro Bowl as a special teams member.[18] Weems finished the 2010 season with six catches for 61 yards. He returned 40 kickoffs for a 1,100 yards with one touchdown. Weems returned 18 punts for 230 yards with one touchdown.[19] He was the only player in the NFC to return a kick and a punt for a touchdown.[20] Weems had a notable contribution for the Atlanta Falcons in the 2010-2011 NFC Divisional Round against the Green Bay Packers. Early in the second quarter, Weems fielded a kickoff two yards deep in his team's own end zone and ran virtually untouched for 102-yard kickoff return touchdown.[21] The 102-yard return was the longest play in NFL postseason history.[22]
2011 season
[edit]The Atlanta Falcons re-signed Weems to a one-year contract on July 31, 2011.[23] He appeared in all 16 games with the Atlanta Falcons, He made two starts at the wide receiver position. Weems caught a career-high 11 catches for a career-high 90 yards. Weems returned 24 kicks for 563 yards. He also returned 32 punts for 315 Yards. Weems also recorded 12 tackles on special teams. He did not score any touchdowns.[24]
Weems was selected as a first-team alternate for the 2012 Pro Bowl as a special teams player.[25]
Weems returned four kickoffs for an average of 20 yards per kickoff and a long of 27 yards in the NFC Wild Card Round game against the New York Giants. He did not record any receptions in the 24–2 loss.[26]
Chicago Bears
[edit]On March 14, 2012, Weems signed a three-year contract with the Chicago Bears as an unrestricted free agent.[27] Weems played in all 16 games with one start at the wide receiver position. Weems caught 2 balls for only 27 yards. He returned 13 kickoffs for 231 yards and 1 punt for no yards. Weems fumbled once and recovered 2 fumbles during the season. He also made 8 tackles.[28] The Bears finished the season with a record of 10-6 and did not make the playoffs.[29]
Weems appeared in all 16 games with the Bears in 2013. He recorded only one reception for eight yards. Weems returned five kickoffs for 57 yards. Weems recorded nine tackles in the season and forced one fumble.[30]
After the Bears signed Santonio Holmes, Weems was released by the team on August 16, 2014.[31]
Atlanta Falcons (second stint)
[edit]On August 21, 2014, Weems signed with the Atlanta Falcons.[32] Weems appeared in all 16 regular season games with the Atlanta Falcons in 2014.[33] On October 5, Weems forced a fumble and recovered a fumble on separate occasions against the New York Giants.[34][35] He caught his first touchdown of the season against the Green Bay Packers on December 8.[36] He then caught his second touchdown two weeks later on December 21, against the New Orleans Saints.[37] Weems caught 10 passes for a career-high 102 yards and two touchdowns. On special teams, he recorded thirteen tackles, two fumble recoveries, a forced fumble, and returned two kicks for 34 yards.[38]
Weems signed a two-year extension with the Falcons on March 6, 2015.[39][40] Weems saw action in all 16 games. He had one reception for 11 yards. Weems returned 15 kicks for 403 yards. He also returned 19 punts for 221 yards.[41]
In the 2016 season, Weems was part of a record-breaking Falcons team.[42] On September 18, 2016, he returned a punt for a career-long 73 yards against the Oakland Raiders.[43] Weems and the Falcons reached Super Bowl LI, where they faced the New England Patriots. In the Super Bowl, Weems had two kick returns for 25 total yards and one punt return for no yards. the Falcons fell in a 34–28 overtime defeat.[44]
Tennessee Titans
[edit]On March 10, 2017, Weems signed with the Tennessee Titans.[45] He was released on September 2, 2017, but was re-signed the next day.[46][47] In the 2017 season, Weems mainly played on a special teams role for the Titans.[48]
On March 9, 2018, Weems was released by the Titans.[49]
NFL career statistics
[edit]Year | Team | GP | Receiving | Punt Return | Kick Return | Fumbles | |||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rec | Tgt | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | FD | Att | Yds | TD | FC | Lng | Att | Yds | TD | FC | Lng | Fum | Lost | |||
2008 | ATL | 6 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 4.0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 | 0 |
2009 | ATL | 16 | 6 | 6 | 50 | 8.3 | 30 | 2 | 3 | 27 | 270 | 0 | 14 | 28 | 48 | 1,214 | 0 | 0 | 62 | 0 | 0 |
2010 | ATL | 16 | 6 | 6 | 61 | 10.2 | 18 | 0 | 3 | 18 | 230 | 1 | 19 | 55 | 40 | 1,100 | 1 | 0 | 102 | 0 | 0 |
2011 | ATL | 16 | 11 | 14 | 90 | 8.2 | 18 | 0 | 5 | 32 | 315 | 0 | 19 | 42 | 24 | 563 | 0 | 0 | 37 | 0 | 0 |
2012 | CHI | 16 | 2 | 4 | 27 | 13.5 | 18 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 13 | 231 | 0 | 0 | 27 | 0 | 0 |
2013 | CHI | 16 | 1 | 2 | 8 | 8.0 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 57 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 | 0 |
2014 | ATL | 16 | 10 | 11 | 102 | 10.2 | 40 | 2 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 34 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 0 | 0 |
2015 | ATL | 16 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 11.0 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 19 | 221 | 0 | 16 | 41 | 15 | 403 | 0 | 0 | 50 | 0 | 0 |
2016 | ATL | 16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 24 | 273 | 0 | 21 | 73 | 17 | 391 | 0 | 0 | 42 | 0 | 0 |
2017 | TEN | 16 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 5.0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 15 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 2 | 18 | 0 | 0 | 18 | 0 | 0 |
Total | 150 | 39 | 47 | 358 | 9.2 | 40 | 4 | 20 | 123 | 1,324 | 1 | 91 | 73 | 167 | 4,030 | 1 | 0 | 102 | 0 | 0 |
References
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- ^ Kernan, Sean (September 26, 2011). "Falcons Pro-Bowl returner Eric Weems keeps everything in perspective". Daytona Beach News-Journal Online. Retrieved May 21, 2023.
- ^ "Eric Weems Signs Free Agent Contract with Atlanta Falcons". Bethune-Cookman University Athletics. May 2, 2007. Retrieved May 21, 2023.
- ^ "Eric Weems NCAA FB Stats - Season & Career Statistics". Fox Sports. Archived from the original on January 2, 2018. Retrieved January 1, 2018.
- ^ "Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons - December 30th, 2007". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on January 2, 2018. Retrieved January 1, 2018.
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- ^ "Eric Weems 2009 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on January 2, 2018. Retrieved January 1, 2018.
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- ^ Durkin, Jimmy (September 19, 2016). "Grading the Raiders' 35-28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons". The Mercury News. Archived from the original on April 1, 2018. Retrieved March 31, 2018.
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External links
[edit]- Career statistics from Pro Football Reference
- Media related to Eric Weems at Wikimedia Commons