Key Takeaways:
– NFL veteran and future Hall of Famer, Bobby Wagner, has signed a 1-year contract with the Washington Commanders.
– Wagner is ranked as one of the top 30 NFL players over 30 years old for his outstanding track record.
– Alongside Wagner, the Commanders have lured Frankie Luvu from the Carolina Panthers, further strengthening their linebacker corps.
The Washington Commanders’ latest moves in the offseason have caught the attention of NFL enthusiasts. The team has appointed new Head Coach Dan Quinn, known for his defensive skills, and acquired veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner for a 1-year contract up to $8.5 million.
Recognizing Wagner’s Worth
According to John Kosko of Pro Football Focus (PFF), Wagner is currently among the top 30 NFL players over the age 30. Ranked at No. 15, Wagner, who is set to turn 34 in June 2024, continues proving his significance on the field. Kosko lauded Wagner’s performance, indicating his strength in recording a 91.1-plus PFF run-defense grade over the previous two seasons.
Wagner’s NFL Journey
Undoubtedly, Wagner has etched a remarkable history in his career. As a 10-time NFL All-Pro and 9-time Pro Bowler, he registered 100 tackles in each of his 13 NFL seasons. While playing for the Seattle Seahawks in 2023, he led the league with 183 tackles, receiving NFL All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors.
The linebacker’s career began when the Seahawks drafted him during the second round of the 2012 NFL draft. Under the guidance of then-defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, he played a critical role in leading the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2013 and their rerun in 2014.
After an illustrious 10-season tenure with the Seahawks, Wagner briefly shifted to the Los Angeles Rams in 2022 under a 5-year, $50 million contract. However, he returned to Seattle for one season the subsequent year.
Commanders Solidify Defense with Robust Linebackers
In addition to Wagner’s recruitment, the Commanders have bolstered their linebackers corps with Frankie Luvu. The free-agent linebacker, formerly of the Carolina Panthers, inked a 3-year, $36 million contract with Washington in March 2024. Luvu boasted a career-high of 125 tackles and two forced fumbles in 2023, showing promising potential for the Commanders’ defensive unit.
Completing the team are Wagner, Luvu, and fourth-year linebacker Jamin Davis. ESPN’s John Keim praised the team’s decision to hire Luvu, citing with his addition, the Commanders finally solidified their linebacker position. According to Keim, Luvu’s aptitude as a blitzer aligns perfectly with Coach Quinn’s preference for his linebackers.
Bobby Wagner’s inclusion in the Washington Commanders’ roster continues to attract buzz in the NFL circuit. His career track record speaks for his exceptional ability and potential to strengthen the team’s defensive unit. With a fortified and diverse linebacker squad, the Commanders’ 2024 season seems promising.