The New York Jets made a splash in free agency this offseason when they signed linebacker C.J. Mosley to a monster five, year, $85 million deal with $51 million guaranteed. It appears Mosley has set the market for what Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner expects when the time comes for him to sign a new deal.
Wagner is entering the final year of his current deal. He has reportedly indicated that he would like his next contract to top Mosley's, via NFL Update:
Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner isn’t practicing at OTAs, but is present. He tells reporters that he wants his next contract to top what CJ Mosley got in free agency ($17M per year).
Wagner's approach is certainly understandable. He has long served as the captain of the Seahawks defense and his presence has helped stabilize this group through all the significant changes it has made in recent years.
The 28-year-old has made five consecutive Pro Bowls and All-Pro teams and is still widely regarded as the best inside linebacker in the NFL. As a result, he feels he deserves to be paid as such.
Boh Mosley and Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechley have surpassed him as the highest-paid players at the position. While each of them is deserving in their own right, few would argue against Wagner being rewarded with an even bigger contract.
Considering the Seahawks have few contingency plans outside of Wagner, it seems they have no choice but to honor his wishes or risk losing the centerpiece of their defense.
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