After his contract expired with the Washington Commanders this offseason, veteran free agent Bobby Wagner is still available to sign with a team. Wagner, a former second-round pick, is one of the oldest linebackers in the league, other than Kyle Van Noy, who is still looking for work. While there are other options like Bobby Okereke and Matt Milano, the veteran will have to settle for a one-year deal on a cheap contract. However, one source believed that the Dallas Cowboys could be interested in Wagner, but they’ve already upgraded their linebacker room.
Meanwhile, he’s been a part of rumors that he could return to Seattle, too. Nothing has happened, but it’s not surprising that the veteran is still available. Approaching 36-years-old, the linebacker isn’t the same he used to be, but he has championship experience, which every team needs. It’s incredible to see what he could do still at his age, and this could be his last season in the league if he signs with a team before the 2026 campaign.
Bobby Wagner
Main Photo: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Bobby Wagner Landing Spots: 3 Suitors Emerge for Best Available Veteran Free Agent
One thing is for sure: he isn’t returning to Washington. The team completely revamped the pass-rushing unit, which was one of the worst last year. The Commanders selected Sonny Styles in the first round of this year’s draft. Before that, they signed Leo Chenal and Odafe Oweh to massive deals, so this meant that Wagner and Von Miller weren’t going to return.
The veteran is still playing at the peak of his career. Although he won’t be a starter anymore, he could terrorize offenses in situational moments, and these three teams could give him a role for one more run.
Possible Destinations
Chicago Bears
After losing Tremaine Edmunds to the Giants, the Bears lost a voice in their locker room. Even though they’ve signed Devin Bush to strengthen the pass-rush, the team could benefit from adding a veteran. With Austin Booker coming off a season-ending injury last year, it’d be the right move in terms of depth. Wagner isn’t the same player he was years ago, but he doesn’t need a starting role.
He could share the field with TJ Edwards and D’Marco Jackson to help finally guide them to an NFC Championship Game, which they were close this year, losing to the Rams in the divisional round.
Indianapolis Colts
Meanwhile, the Colts are officially rebuilding their linebacker unit after trading Zaire Franklin. The team selected CJ Allen and Bryce Boettcher in the draft this year, but they need a veteran. The Colts want to ensure that QB Daniel Jones has enough time on the field, and if they’re going to do that, Wagner is the right fit to turn the ball over. Not saying he’ll make all of the plays, but he’d have a starting spot to leave Allen and Boettcher in a good place, learning from the veteran.
San Francisco 49ers
If anyone could use the depth, it’s the San Francisco 49ers. The team lost Mykel Williams, Nick Bosa and Fred Warner in one season last year. While Joey Bosa is still available and likely to join his brother Nick, no deal has materialized. If it falls flat with Joey, they could roll the dice on Wagner on a one-year contract.