The Washington Commanders have expanded their roster with the addition of All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner, continuing their spree in free agency.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that Wagner will join the Commanders on a one-year, $8.5 million ($6 million guaranteed) contract.
After having their worst season (4-13) since the arrival of head coach Ron Rivera in 2020, the Commanders have been one of the league’s busiest teams. The addition of the veteran linebacker now brings in Washington’s fifth new face on the defensive side of the ball, and their 10th overall.
Wagner’s latest move lands him on the East Coast for the first time in what will be his 13th year but will be surrounded by familiar faces. His arrival in Washington will reunite him with his former defensive coordinators, Dan Quinn and Ken Norton Jr.
The 33-year-old linebacker just had what was likely his best season to date, recording a career-high 183 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and six quarterback hits in addition to leading the league in tackles. Wagner, who will provide leadership both on and off the field, is joining a defense that finished dead last in 2023.
During their time in Seattle, Wagner and Quinn helped form one of the most feared defenses and will hope to recreate that in 2024 now at the nation’s capital.
Wagner has spent the majority of his career in the Emerald City where his impact has gone beyond his play on the gridiron. For 11 years, Wagner has built an everlasting relationship with the city and fans of Seattle where his love and impact have been recognized with multiple Walter Payton Man of the Year nominations.
In his latest post on X, formerly Twitter, Wagner commemorated Seattle, saying “It’s always love. Until we meet again. I’m around.”
Although Wagner and Seattle are still very much in love, the former Super Bowl champion will wear new jerseys for the 2024 season.
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