Bobby Wagner is still without a home. The Washington Commanders have seemingly moved on from the future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker, but the veteran is biding his time before embarking on what could be the final challenge of his glittering career.
Wagner may have to wait until after the draft, but one national NFL analyst added his name to the growing list of those who believe Washington's most hated rival could be his next landing spot.
Garrett Podell of CBS Sports thought the Dallas Cowboys made a ton of sense for Wagner. They could still draft a linebacker relatively early, but the analyst highlighted the experience factor during a critical campaign for the Commanders' divisional rival as a reason this move could yield short-term benefits.
CBS Sports analyst adds weight to growing speculation around Bobby Wagner's life after Commanders
Whether it becomes reality or not remains to be seen, but Podell is not alone in his musings about Wagner and the Cowboys.
"[Bobby] Wagner now has 14 consecutive seasons (2012-25) with 100-plus tackles, which is tied for the longest such streak since 2000 along with London Fletcher (20-13). The Dallas Cowboys still lack a green dot, middle linebacker entering the 2025 NFL Draft. Even if a rookie draft pick becomes the eventual starter, having a future Hall of Famer to mentor the next generation at the position would be ideal for Dallas."
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer made no secret of his admiration for Wagner during the annual league meeting. He didn't rule out a potential approach, but nothing concrete has emerged as yet. There is a need for an on-field general in Dallas. Even so, the Utah State product would need to be 100 percent convinced they have a chance to contend next season.
Wagner's powers are declining. He's still effective against the run and on blitzes, working in between the tackles and communicating exceptionally pre-snap. But when it comes to operating in isolation, the six-time All-Pro is becoming a weak link.
If the second-level presence is insulated, he can still be productive. The Cowboys weren't exactly a model of stability on defense last season, when coordinator Matt Eberflus was fired. Christian Parker's arrival stirs intrigue, and he could use someone with Wagner's accomplished credentials to help him smooth his transition.
The Cowboys don't have much money to spend right now. That could complicate things, with Wagner projected to command a one-year, $7.64 million deal. Moving from the Commanders — where he loved his time — to their arch nemesis might also give him cause to pause. At the same time, this is a business.
Wagner might not be in Washington next season, but head coach Dan Quinn will probably be hoping he doesn't end up in the division.