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The Washington Commanders are eager to prove that their franchise-rejuvenating 2024-25 campaign, which culminated with an unexpected NFC Championship appearance, is no fluke. The best way to maintain momentum going into next season might be by retaining a future Hall of Famer, and that is exactly what they are doing. Linebacker Bobby Wagner is set to re-sign with the team.
The six-time First-Team All-Pro and the Commanders agreed to a one-year contract worth $9.5 million with $8 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. Wagner boldly represented himself during negotiations, and now he is being rewarded with a nice deal for his 14th NFL season.
Washington general manager Adam Peters is not messing around. He acquired former All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers last weekend, and on Thursday, the executive sought to bring back one of the squad's most reliable defensive contributors. Wagner totaled 75 solo tackles (132 combined), 10 tackles for loss, two sacks, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries in 17 games last season.
The stalwart production earned the 34-year-old his fourth consecutive Second-Team All-Pro selection and 10th Pro Bowl nod. The advanced metrics shine just as favorably on him. Wagner earned an 88.3 defensive grade from renowned sports analytics company Pro Football Focus, ranking third among linebackers and trailing only Philadelphia Eagles breakout Zack Baun and San Francisco 49ers great Fred Warner.
Bobby Wagner wants to finish what he and the Commanders started
Father Time can work rather abruptly, but this exceptional talent is still one of the best at his craft. The Commanders allowed 137.5 rushing yards and 23 points per game in 2024-25, ranking 30th and 18th in the NFL, respectively. They need to further address those issues in free agency and the NFL Draft, but keeping a longstanding difference-maker like Bobby Wagner is a good start.
Beyond his on-field impact, which is reflected through a team-high 1,258 defensive snaps, No. 54 offers championship experience. He helped the Seattle Seahawks win Super Bowl 48 and recorded an interception in the gut-punching Super Bowl 49 loss to the New England Patriots. His leadership can continue to positively impact young players in the Commanders locker room like Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels.
Washington believes it is built for another deep playoffs run, and Wagner's decision to return supports that level of confidence.
