:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46550754/GettyImages-457555856.0.jpg)
As we know, today marked the beginning of mandatory workouts for the Chargers (aka: minicamp). As expected, Eric Weddle reported to the mandatory workouts today, after holding out of voluntary workouts while expressing his displeasure with the Chargers in regards to his contract.
After practice today, several players and coaches were made available to the media, and Eric Weddle was among the players who addressed the media today.
Weddle approached the podium and read a prepared statement to the media:
Eric Weddle brings out cell phone to begin press conference. He has a statement. Begins with thanking Chargers organization, teammates.
— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) June 16, 2015
Eric Weddle is reading from prepared statement as he addresses the media. "I want everyone to know my integrity & character mean everything
— Marty Caswell (@MartyCaswell) June 16, 2015
Eric Weddle said he and his agent have expressed goal to remain with Chargers. Desire not been mutual. Never been offer on table to consider
— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) June 16, 2015
Weddle "it's obvious I'm not part of their long term plans." Weddle says he wishes organization had been up fron with them.
— Marty Caswell (@MartyCaswell) June 16, 2015
Weddle with prepared speech. "Honestly nothing would make me happier to retire a charger... Unfortunately the desire has not been mutual."
— Judson Richards (@Judson1360) June 16, 2015
To clarify- Weddle says if deal not reached by camp he will become a free agent after season- no more negotiations with Chargers
— Marty Caswell (@MartyCaswell) June 16, 2015
Weddle on playing while being at odds with front off: You really know who's in your circle and who's not. It's opened my eyes to a lot.
— Judson Richards (@Judson1360) June 16, 2015
Weddle if he feels betrayed: No. When I saw Jimmy Graham get traded, that opened my eyes.
— Judson Richards (@Judson1360) June 16, 2015
Weddle reiterates he/agent have never talked $$ with the Chargers. Says reports about his demands inaccurate
— Marty Caswell (@MartyCaswell) June 16, 2015
Eric Weddle said this will be the last time he publicly addresses his contract situation. His last words on it were amazing. Story soon.
— UTKevinAcee (@UTKevinAcee) June 16, 2015
Weddle press conference done. Spoke from heart. Clearly disappointed in state of things. Reiterated 2016 too late for a Chargers extension.
— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) June 16, 2015
#CHARGERS: Eric Weddle addresses inaccuracies with contract situation and (non) talks: http://t.co/lF6G7JfOd0
— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) June 16, 2015
As of this writing, the video from Weddle's press conference is not yet available for viewing on Chargers.com.
Based on Weddle's statements, the theories are true: the Chargers and Weddle are rather far apart on contract details, mostly because they haven't had any contract talks. It sounds like Weddle has accepted his fate and will play out the last year in his contract and find a new home next season.