Eric Weems is one of the most beloved and energetic players on the Atlanta Falcons roster, pulling his weight within a close-knit, high-profile wide receivers group. When Weems returned to Atlanta this season after a two-year stop in Chicago, it was as if he'd never left, dominating on special teams and providing another threat in the passing game.
"It was just going out and practicing every day," Weems said. "I know my skills and how I needed to use them to help our team. I focused on that and whenever my team needed me, I did my best to provide a spark."
Originally signed by Atlanta as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2007, Weems made a name for himself through a determined spirit, later equating to a couple of receiving touchdowns in 2009 and Pro Bowl honors in 2010 as a special teams star. Fast forward to 2014, the former Bethune-Cookman star returned to the Falcons, joining Roddy White, Julio Jones, Harry Douglas and fellow free agent Devin Hester to headline a star-studded receiving corps.
All season long, Weems was praised for his efforts on special teams as well as a receiver. The eight-year veteran finished the season with two touchdowns, followed by memorable celebrations. His first score of the year came on a 4th-and-goal play against the Green Bay Packers in Week 14, hauling in the 5-yard touchdown pass from Matt Ryan, followed by his hop-filled dance. His second score came against the New Orleans Saints, a 3-yard touchdown reception in the team's 30-14 win in Week 16.
Regardless of the team's record in 2014, Weems brought energy, excitement and passion to each and every practice, meeting room and game, highlighted by his Mic'd Up sessions. Showcasing his talents throughout the 16 games this year, Weems considered it a privilege to not only help his team but to also entertain and motivate his countless fans. "It means a lot," Weems said. "It means I'm an inspiration. There are people out there that look up to me, and they love what I do. They love the work I put into the game, and that's what it's all about, inspiring people. Football is my platform to fulfill my purpose to have people look up to me and admire what I do."
