The Seattle Seahawks disappointed the Washington Commanders Tuesday when they traded franchise quarterback Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos.
Washington desperately wanted to acquire Wilson, reportedly offering three first-round picks for the Pro Bowl quarterback. Now, Washington will turn its attention to Deshaun Watson, free agency, and the NFL draft to pursue its next starting quarterback.
While the Seahawks didn’t trade Wilson to Washington, they released a player who could help the Commanders in 2022. Longtime starting linebacker Bobby Wagner was informed Tuesday evening he was being released, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Wagner, 31, played 10 seasons for Seattle, is a six-time first-team All-Pro and a two-time second-team All-Pro. He is also an eight-time Pro Bowl selection.
Seahawks informed eight-time All-Pro and Pro-Bowl LB Bobby Wagner, a franchise icon, that they are releasing him, per source.
Wagner arrived in Seattle on the same 2012 day as Russell Wilson and now leaves the same day, too. End of an era in Seattle.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2022
This is big news.
Outside of quarterback, inside linebacker is arguably Washington’s top need. While some intriguing options are available in the 2022 NFL draft, the Commanders could sign Wagner this week. He doesn’t cost Washington draft picks, only cash and cap room, which the Commanders have plenty of at the moment.
Last season, Wagner played 16 games and recorded 170 tackles. He remains one of the best linebackers in the NFL and a respected locker-room leader. He has missed just 10 games over his 10-year career.
If Washington signed Wagner, it could release Landon Collins and go with a linebacker trio of Wagner, Cole Holcomb and Jamin Davis.
According to Pro Football Focus, Wagner graded out well in 2021, finishing with an overall grade of 71.8.
Maybe Wagner wants to play for a Super Bowl contender, and Washington isn’t an option. Or, perhaps, Washington makes a serious offer to Wagner that he will have a difficult time in turning down.
One thing is certain, Wagner will have options — plenty of options.
