Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB
Bobby Wagner firmly established himself as a locker room alpha in short order. The veteran linebacker opted to link back up with Dan Quinn in free agency. He was tasked with on-field production and spearheading the Washington Commanders' locker room culture shift.
That was a lot to ask. Instead of shying away from responsibilities, Wagner embraced them with his customary poise and determination. His role was integral to Washington's exceptional run to the final four.
Wagner's lost a step, there's no getting away from that. His sideline-to-sideline impactfulness isn't what it used to be. However, the former second-round pick's football IQ and ability to recognize plays developing quickly remain elite. His partnership with Frankie Luvu was exemplary, with both linebackers earning second-team All-Pro honors along the way.
The Utah State product is out of contract and looking for a new deal. Wagner's production more than warrants another year and the Commanders would be wise to keep him around. Even so, there is growing speculation that another team might be lurking for his services.
Pete Carroll is head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. His admiration for Wagner is well known and came across at the NFL Scouting Combine. Quinn was noncommittal when discussing his future, so it's a wait-and-see scenario for fans.
Noah Brown - Commanders WR
Noah Brown will be remembered in Commanders' folklore regardless of whether he re-signs or not. This, of course, is thanks to his miracle Hail Mary touchdown pass to beat the Chicago Bears.
Fortune favored Brown and the Commanders. With time expiring and the Bears en route to 5-2, quarterback Jayden Daniels heaved up a prayer near the end zone after a scramble drill. The ball got tipped into the wide receiver's hands, causing absolute bedlam at Northwest Stadium.
That immediately endeared Brown to Washington's fanbase. But from Adam Peters' perspective, he cannot allow emotional attachment to creep into his decision-making process.
Brown's overall contribution was modest. He made some big plays. He suffered mental errors with drops. A serious internal injury ended his campaign ahead of time and the former seventh-round pick was unable to get back for the postseason.
The Commanders need to fortify their firepower around Daniels this offseason with only Terry McLaurin and Luke McCaffrey under contract. Brown could get a reprieve depending on his medical assessments, but it might easily go the other way.
Dyami Brown's emergence over the second half of 2024 doesn't bode well for his hopes. The Commanders will consider keeping both, but they have the resources needed to think bigger.