Landmark changes are coming to the Washington Commanders this offseason. With only one game of 2025 remaining, Dan Quinn and his coaching staff are running out of time to see what some younger players can do.
The Philadelphia Eagles are planning to rest quarterback Jalen Hurts and other established stars in Week 18. They have the playoffs in mind, and although the Commanders are playing for nothing other than pride, Quinn has been somewhat reluctant to take snaps away from his veteran leaders.
That has to change this weekend. And for prolific linebacker Bobby Wagner, there is one significant milestone to claim before officially passing the torch.
Bobby Wagner has a significant goal in his sights before bowing out with the Commanders
Most fans and experts expect this to be Wagner's final game in Washington. Nothing has been confirmed one way or another, but the need to get younger is evident. Although the former Utah State standout is still a force in between the tackles, his flaws are becoming more glaring when isolated. And at 35 years old, this could be a good time to bring an end to his Pro Football Hall of Fame career.
Wagner is deeply respected by Quinn and his teammates. He's barely been off the field this season, playing 1,032 (99 percent) of the team's defensive snaps entering Week 18. That's been a contentious issue in recent weeks, so it would be surprising if this didn't change at Lincoln Financial Field.
There is one goal that could ensure Wagner rides off into the sunset with something to show for his efforts. The six-time All-Pro is just five tackles away from 2,000. Nobody in NFL history has reached this number before, and given that he already has 152 tackles on the season, it's an attainable target.
Once this achievement is secure, Wagner can bow out gracefully. Jordan Magee is getting more reps. The Commanders need to provide Kain Medrano and Ale Kaho with vital experience in competitive settings to support their ongoing development. If Quinn leaves the aging veteran in for the entire game, it's nothing short of malpractice at this juncture.
Wagner has accomplished more than most can even dream of. He's one of the league's most exceptional linebackers of the modern era. He's a first-ballot induction to Canton when the time comes. The Commanders' incredible run to the NFC Championship game last season wouldn't have happened without his influence on and off the field.
At the same time, if Wagner isn't part of the team's plans beyond 2025, he needs to step aside. And five more tackles should be enough to do just that.