Weatherly's Professional NFL Career and Athletic Profile
The journey of a professional athlete is often defined by a combination of raw physical talent and the resilience to navigate the complexities of the league. For Weatherly, a standout from Vanderbilt, this journey began with a strong showing at the NFL Combine, showcasing the physical tools necessary to compete at the highest level of professional football.
Key Facts
- Draft Position: Selected 227th overall in the 7th round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings.
- Vanderbilt Legacy: First Vanderbilt defensive lineman or linebacker drafted since 2012.
- Peak Production: Recorded three sacks in both the 2018 and 2019 regular seasons with Minnesota.
- Physical Profile: Stands 6 ft 4 3/8 in and weighs 267 lb.
Athletic Profile and Combine Performance
Before entering the professional ranks, Weatherly's physical capabilities were meticulously measured. The NFL Combine—a standardized test of speed, strength, and agility for draft prospects—provided a detailed look at his athletic ceiling. His performance highlighted a balance of size and explosive power, particularly in the bench press and vertical jump.
| Metric | Result | Metric | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 4 3/8 in (1.94 m) | 40-Yard Dash | 4.61 s |
| Weight | 267 lb (121 kg) | 10-Yard Split | 1.59 s |
| Arm Length | 34 1/2 in (0.88 m) | 20-Yard Split | 2.67 s |
| Hand Span | 10 1/4 in (0.26 m) | 20-Yard Shuttle | 4.42 s |
| Vertical Jump | 31 in (0.79 m) | Three-Cone Drill | 7.07 s |
| Broad Jump | 9 ft 9 in (2.97 m) | Bench Press | 23 reps |
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Professional Career Timeline
Minnesota Vikings (First Stint)
Weatherly entered the league in 2016 as the second Vanderbilt alum ever drafted by the Minnesota Vikings. His start was humble; after being released during final roster cuts on September 3, 2016, he was signed to the practice squad the following day. He eventually earned a spot on the active roster on November 21, 2016.
While his first two seasons were quiet in terms of statistics, Weatherly's role expanded in 2018 during the absence of Everson Griffen. He started six games that year and recorded three sacks. He maintained this production in 2019, recording another three sacks in the regular season and one sack during the divisional round of the postseason against the San Francisco 49ers.
Carolina Panthers
On March 23, 2020, Weatherly signed a two-year contract with the Carolina Panthers, where he was named a starting defensive end. He started the first nine games of the 2020 season before a finger injury required surgery, leading to his placement on injured reserve on November 13, 2020. He was subsequently released on February 19, 2021.
Return to Minnesota and Later Moves
Weatherly's career saw him return to the Minnesota Vikings on March 8, 2021. However, his second stint was brief. On October 23, 2021, he was traded to the Denver Broncos along with a 2023 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2022 seventh-round pick.
His journey continued with the Cleveland Browns, whom he signed with on April 18, 2022. Unfortunately, his tenure there was hampered by injury; on August 6, 2022, he was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Weatherly drafted into the NFL?
Weatherly was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL draft, 227th overall.
What were Weatherly's best statistical seasons?
His most productive years were 2018 and 2019, during which he recorded three sacks in each regular season while playing for the Minnesota Vikings.
Which teams did Weatherly play for during his career?
Weatherly played for the Minnesota Vikings (two stints), the Carolina Panthers, the Denver Broncos, and the Cleveland Browns.
What athletic measurements did Weatherly record at the Combine?
He recorded a 40-yard dash of 4.61 seconds, a vertical jump of 31 inches, and completed 23 reps on the bench press.
Why was Weatherly placed on injured reserve in 2022?
While with the Cleveland Browns, Weatherly was placed on injured reserve on August 6, 2022, due to a knee injury.