News has quieted down a bit on the free agency front for the Washington Commanders, who only made one signing this past week in cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon. But it doesn't mean they're entirely done just yet.
Most of Washington's outgoing free agents are still available, including many of the aging veterans no one wants to bring back. But there's one player who is more than welcome for another go-around if the role is right, and head coach Dan Quinn hasn't entirely ruled out the possibility.
That player, of course, is future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Bobby Wagner. And it sounds like with or without him, the Commanders have a plan.
Jordan Magee is ready to take over Bobby Wagner's role, and the Commanders have faith
As reported by ESPN insider John Keim, in an interview with the head coach, Washington wants to move forward with the players it currently has at linebacker. That includes Frankie Luvu, new signing Leo Chenal, and Jordan Magee.
Quinn said the Commanders would "never shut the door" on Wagner, but it feels unlikely a return is in the works. Furthermore, the coach stated that both Magee and Chenal are available to play middle linebacker, a position the future Pro Football Hall of Famer has held throughout his career.
It sounds like Magee has earned the coaching staff's trust as a player who should become a full-time starter in 2026. The fifth-round pick from Temple only appeared in eight contests as a rookie, dealing with multiple injuries, but emerged into a bigger role in Year 2 as he started eight times.
Magee didn't make much of an impact in the stat sheet, with no sacks and only 54 tackles. But his quickness and energy were exactly what the Commanders' lethargic defense needed more of a season ago. After ranking dead-last in yards allowed and second-to-last in turnovers forced, the unit will continue to rely on its youth to provide a spark under new coordinator Daronte Jones in 2026.
The new additions, such as Chenal, edge rushers Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, safety Nick Cross, and cornerback Amik Robertson, should provide plenty of that juice. But Washington will also be counting on its returning youngsters, including Magee and cornerbacks Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil, to step up.
It's a make-or-break season for the third-year pro, and it sounds like he should have every opportunity to make a name for himself.
Sometimes, that's all it takes.