It seems as if Bobby Wagner's time with the Washington Commanders has come to an end after two seasons. The future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker was a tremendous asset to the team, but age is finally catching up.
The Commanders haven't shut the door completely on Wagner returning, but signing Leo Chenal to go alongside Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee in free agency makes this less likely. If Washington acquires someone like Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, there is no chance.
Wagner wants to play in 2026. He's assessing his options right now, but there's no great rush. The six-time All-Pro has been around long enough to prepare his body effectively, and he's probably looking to contend in what could be his final campaign before retirement.
Bobby Wagner could be an asset to the Rams as Commanders move on
Kristopher Knox of The Bleacher Report agreed with this sentiment. The analyst named the Los Angeles Rams as an ideal fit, especially given that Wagner has already played there. The Dallas Cowboys were also listed as a potential suitor, which would be much more surprising.
"Given his age, Wagner would make the most sense for a team with serious Super Bowl aspirations. He'd be a great addition for the Los Angeles Rams, who employed Wagner in 2022.
"L.A. is eager to maximize its remaining time with Matthew Stafford, as evidenced by their trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie. Signing Wagner would add another leader and difference-maker to the Rams' defense. The Cowboys would also make sense for Wagner, given their need for defensive improvements and lack of quality linebacker depth."
The Rams are going all-in for a Super Bowl next season. It's being held at SoFi Stadium, which isn't being lost on general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay. For all their strengths, they are weak at middle linebacker. If insulated correctly, Wagner could be an experienced, dependable force in between the tackles while also providing exceptional leadership in the locker room for good measure.
Wagner would no doubt jump at the chance to rejoin the Rams, where he spent one season in 2022. His powers have waned since then, but Los Angeles has plenty of explosive young defenders who could pick up the slack. And if the Utah State product is looking to ride off into the sunset with his second ring, this might be the best place to accomplish just that.
The Commanders have moved on, and rightfully so in the circumstances. But make no mistake; Wagner will be an asset for a team looking to make a serious Super Bowl push next season.