Atlanta Falcons: Eric Weems appears to be on his way out

Dec 6, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Eric Weems (14) works out prior to the game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Eric Weems (14) works out prior to the game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Another long-time member of the Atlanta Falcons could be on his way out

Eric Weems has been a fan-favorite ever since he found a home as the Atlanta Falcons’ kick and punt returner in 2009.

But here we are seven years later.

Weems was Atlanta’s main kick and punt returner for the first half of the 2015 season while Devin Hester was out with injury. But failed to make anything happen. Weems managed one 50-yard kickoff return but was cut down at or near the 20-yard line more times than not.

Fast-forward to 2016 and Weems’ job as return man might be over. Weems was not back to return any punts or kicks in the Falcons’ first preseason game. that job went to Justin Hardy, Devin Fuller and JD mcKissic.

Things are not looking good for Weems for multiple reasons.

More from Blogging Dirty

For one, he holds zero weight as a wide receiver. Giving him a roster spot over someone who could actually contribute on offense would be a poor decision only to have him be a gunner on special teams.

And two, he holds little weight in the return game. McKissic went the distance in last week’s preseason game and Fuller has a lot of potential on both offense and special teams. And they are both young, unlike Weems.

Unless Weems can show us something in these last three preseason games, it’s very doubtful that he is rewarded with a spot on the 53-man roster.

Weems has given the fans a lot to be happy about. From his punt return TD against the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, to his constant dabbing in 2015, he’s been a fun character to watch. But it’s time to part ways and let the younger crowd take over.

Next: Five players to watch in their second preseason game vs Browns

It’s been fun, Weems. It’s been really fun.