Former NFL Star Eric Weddle Has Jersey Retired by Alma Mater

Weddle, now head coach at Rancho Bernardo High, honored by Alta Loma High School where he starred as a safety.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:33pm

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Eric Weddle, a former longtime NFL defensive back and Super Bowl champion who is now the head coach of the Rancho Bernardo High School football team, recently had his jersey number retired by his alma mater Alta Loma High School in a special ceremony. Weddle played safety for Alta Loma before going on to a successful 14-year NFL career and then transitioning into high school coaching.

Why it matters

Weddle's jersey retirement by Alta Loma High School highlights his lasting impact on the school and community where he first made a name for himself as a standout player. It also showcases how high school sports can serve as a springboard for athletes to achieve greatness at the professional level and then give back by coaching the next generation.

The details

In a social media post, Weddle expressed his gratitude for the honor, saying "What a day at (Alta Loma High School). Amazing experience to share with the school, admin and my family. It all started here, honored to have my #22 retired at the school." Weddle just completed his third year as head coach of the Rancho Bernardo football program, leading the team to a 7-3 record in 2025.

  • Last week, Weddle's No. 22 jersey was retired in a special ceremony held on the campus of Alta Loma High School.
  • Weddle played safety at Alta Loma High School before his 14-year NFL career and current role as head coach of Rancho Bernardo High School.

The players

Eric Weddle

A former longtime NFL defensive back and Super Bowl champion who is now the head coach of the Rancho Bernardo High School football team.

Gaige Weddle

Eric Weddle's son, who is a touted quarterback prospect in the 2028 recruiting class and has led Rancho Bernardo to 16 wins over the past two seasons.

Alta Loma High School

The high school in Rancho Cucamonga, California where Eric Weddle starred as a safety before going on to the NFL and coaching.

Rancho Bernardo High School

The high school in California where Eric Weddle is currently the head football coach, leading the team to a 7-3 record in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“What a day at (Alta Loma High School). Amazing experience to share with the school, admin and my family. It all started here, honored to have my #22 retired at the school. Big year for the (Alta Loma High School). Grateful for the love and support all these years.”

— Eric Weddle

The takeaway

Eric Weddle's jersey retirement by his alma mater Alta Loma High School is a testament to the lasting impact high school sports can have on an athlete's life and career. It showcases how the foundation built at the high school level can propel players to greatness, and how those players can then return to give back to their communities as coaches.