Seattle Seahawks inside linebacker Bobby Wagner has been a staple of the team's defense since the “Legion of Boom” era, so he knows what it means to be part of a dominant unit.
Thus, it makes sense Wagner would concede the Seahawks must make gains on the defensive side of the football if they hope to get closer to realizing their dreams of winning another Super Bowl (via Patrick Olde Loohuis of USA TODAY):
However, Wagner stated that the defensive unit needs to improve, a sentiment shared by Seahawks fans and coaches alike.
“We’re confident on that side,” Wagner said. “I feel like from the defensive standpoint, there’s a lot of room for improvement. We have to play a little bit better. I feel like if we make those changes and make those improvements, I still feel like we’ll be the team to beat.”
Wagner was his typically excellent self in 2019, leading the NFL with 159 combined tackles while also chipping in 3.0 sacks and an interception. But on the whole, Seattle's defense struggled.
The Seahawks ranked 18th in defensive DVOA. But in spite of Wagner's brilliance, they were just 26th in DVOA against opposing rushing attacks, per Football Outsiders.
Seattle has not done much this offseason due to salary cap limitations, although they are still hoping to re-sign Jadeveon Clowney.
Outside of potential additions by way of the 2020 NFL Draft, the Seahawks will have to make internal improvements on the defensive side of the ball.
But Wagner, ever the consummate leader, feels Seattle's defense is ready for a big season.
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