Bobby Wagner has been a revelation for the Washington Commanders this season. The veteran linebacker's influence on and off the field is a primary reason why the franchise has overachieved in Year 1 of their drastic rebuild. He's spearheaded a culture shift of epic proportions and deserves enormous praise for his efforts.
Wagner signed a one-year deal to reunite with head coach Dan Quinn in free agency. The Commanders should offer him another short-term extension if he wants to continue his prolific playing career. However, general manager Adam Peters should also start planning for the future.
The former second-round pick out of Utah State isn't getting any younger. Wagner will be 35 years old next season and is firmly in the twilight of his first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Fame career. Adding to the linebacking corps with a long-term replacement wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
Commanders select Alabama LB Jihaad Campbell in 2025 NFL mock draft
This was a topic brought up by Charles McDonald and Nate Tice from Yahoo Sports in their recent mock draft. The analysts tipped the Commanders to select Jihaad Campbell with their first-round selection. Something that would provide an extra sense of explosiveness that's been lacking at times throughout the campaign.
"[Jihaad] Campbell is the first true linebacker off the board, and he goes to a team that could stand to get a smidge faster on the second level of the defense. In a world where college football isn’t producing many true first-round talents at the position, the Crimson Tide product could be one of them."Charles McDonald and Nate Tice
There's a significant need to surround rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels with everything needed to thrive. However, if Wagner calls it a day or opts for a fresh challenge elsewhere, someone like Campbell should enter serious consideration.
The Alabama prospect boasts a unique blend of speed and instincts. He's a heavy hitter with superb tackling to stop runners in their tracks at the contact point. Campbell has sound enough closing speed and is capable of impacting proceedings in all phases.
Campbell's versatility is something that Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. could put to good use. The former five-star high school recruit can operate anywhere at the defensive second level with minimal fuss. He's also got experience operating as a true edge rusher before transitioning to a full-time linebacker with the Crimson Tide.
There are some areas Campbell could stand to improve. He's a gifted athlete but needs to refine his technique. The player can overcommit and is too aggressive on occasion. Adding to his pass-rushing repertoire is also something that should serve him well during his transition to the pros.
The Commanders drafted Jordan Magee to develop into a potential starter once Wagner hangs up his cleats. Much will depend on his progress and whether the veteran wants one more go-around in 2025. But if Washington wants to add some extra urgency with a genuine difference-maker, they could do far worse than Campbell that's for sure.
Peters is always thinking two steps ahead. That's why drafting Campbell cannot be dismissed if the right offensive pieces are acquired in free agency.