The Washington Commanders haven't brought back linebacker Bobby Wagner as yet. That isn't a great shock, considering their desperate need to get younger and his obvious limitations. But the longer he stays on the market, the more chance there is of him re-signing on a team-friendly deal.
This would probably send the wrong message, especially after the Commanders signed Leo Chenal in free agency. Wagner's experience has been a major asset over his two seasons in Washington. However, it's clear that age is finally starting to catch up with the Pro Football Hall of Famer.
It'll be interesting to see what comes next for Wagner. Head coach Dan Quinn laid his cards on the table, leaving the door slightly open for the Utah State product while also offering encouragement about the current linebacker options already around.
Commanders say all the right things about Bobby Wagner, but it doesn't change the reality
Quinn stated via ESPN's John Keim that the door will never be closed on Wagner. At the same time, he is expecting massive improvements from the likes of Chenal and Jordan Magee within defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' schematic concepts.
"We would never shut the door on him. We do feel like there's some players that are about to take off at [his] position.
"He's like the most remarkable player and leader. I wanted to make sure I said how important he was to me to come here together, like what standards could look like. And then yes, like what Adam said to him and some others, 'We're going to leave the door open, and we'll see what that looks like over the time ahead.'"
Quinn and Wagner have a strong connection dating back to their time together on the Seattle Seahawks. There is a deep respect between the two, but the chances of him returning to the club are extremely unlikely.
The Commanders are moving on, and rightfully so. Wagner would be coming into a reduced role as younger players are given more responsibilities. If he's going to do something like that, he'd probably want to land on a legitimate Super Bowl challenger.
Washington is more likely to draft another linebacker than re-sign Wagner. Jones' system needs dynamism, versatility, and hunger. The 10-time Pro Bowler is the ultimate pro who commands the utmost respect. He's also probably only got one more campaign left before retirement, so Peters is right to think about the bigger picture.
The door might never be closed. But all signs point to Wagner and the Commanders going their separate ways for good.