Organized team activities are underway around the league. The Washington Commanders will take important first steps in the coming days, laying a solid foundation for a smooth summer before Week 1.
And yet, veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner remains unsigned.
The Commanders have moved on from Wagner. He served a purpose during his two years with the club, but there was a desperate need to get younger and more explosive. They achieved that with Leo Chenal and Sonny Styles, but that all but confirmed the Utah State product was done.
Wagner probably has one year left before retirement, so he's well within his rights to be selective regarding his next destination. Speculation continues to rise, but there is just no telling where he'll end up next.
ESPN analyst touts Jacksonvills as Bobby Wagner landing spot after Commanders exit
Matt Bowen of ESPN named the Jacksonville Jaguars as the best landing spot for Wagner. They are short on experience at the second level of defense after Devin Lloyd left for the Carolina Panthers. While it would be nothing more than a short-term solution, the AFC South club is ready to win now after making the playoffs in 2025.
"[Bobby] Wagner's 9.5 tackles per game ranked sixth overall in 2025, showing he can still key quickly and rack up run stops. He does have limitations in coverage at this stage of his career, which Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile would have to manage.
"However, as an early-down defender, Wagner could potentially take on the role next to Foyesade Oluokun. Devin Lloyd, who was a mainstay on Jacksonville's second level, signed a three-year, $45 million deal with the Panthers this offseason."
Wagner might welcome the chance to play in a warmer climate to close out his career. The Jaguars have a decent young team looking to take the next step. The future first ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer is well-versed in helping a team go from contenders to pretenders, so the knowledge he could pass on will be invaluable in this scenario.
However, the Jaguars might not be far enough along. They are getting closer, but they are not yet among the legitimate Super Bowl hopefuls. That is probably what Wagner is looking for, but eventually, others will also be considered the longer he's still looking for work.
As for the Commanders? Their new-look linebacking corps should be a strength. Frankie Luvu, Chenal, and Styles look like a formidable trio. Washington also has high hopes for Jordan Magee, which would make it a potentially prolific quartet if everything goes as expected.
There is no room for Wagner now, even though the door will never be truly closed. But what comes next for the 10-time Pro Bowler is anyone's guess.
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