Is Former Seattle Seahawks Linebacker Bobby Wagner Ready to Play for the Detroit Lions to Rebuild?
Seattle Seahawks All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner was informed Tuesday by Seattle's front office that the team plans to release him.
Ahead of free agency, the team publicly hoped that Wagner would return to defend itself.
"At this time of year, a lot of people are in a position where we have to figure out where everyone fits together. Bobby has been such a constant part of it and we would love to be able to play with him, so We'll work in that direction. If we can do it, we'll do it," head coach Pete Carroll told reporters at the NFL Coalition last week.
The decision to part ways with Wagner saves the NFC West powerhouse $16.6 million in cash and salary-cap space.
According to ESPN, "Wagner, The Seahawks' all-time tackle leader, was entering the final year of the deal with a non-guaranteed $16.35 million base salary and $250,000 available in per-game roster bonuses. He had a $20.35 million cap charge OKCAP. Even with the Seahawks in shape—and even with Wagner coming out of a 170-tuck season that earned him his eighth Pro Bowl nod in 10 seasons.
Wagner will turn 32 in June, and is now set to become a free agent in the NFL for the first time.
There is still a small chance that the veteran linebacker may return to Seattle on a much less expensive and more team-friendly contract.
Clearly, the Detroit Lions and their young defense should consider adding a veteran of Wagner's experience and know-how.
An interesting point in any future talks is that Wagner will act as his agent.
While the number of impact plays made by Wagner declined steadily in 2021, he still demonstrated why he would be a valuable asset to the next team that decides to sign him.
He recorded 170 tackles as he entered week 17, leading the NFL.
In 2021, Wagner secured an interception, a sack, a force majeure and five passes. Also, he was named a Second Team All-Pro.
With Derrick Barnes continuing to develop and veteran Alex Enzalone not returning, adding a player of Wagner's caliber makes total sense and would be a solid fit.
But, why would a veteran like Wagner, who would likely have many competing teams knocking on the door, sign on to Detroit?
That decision would ultimately fall on Wagner.
If he wants to play for the team that offers him the most lucrative contract during the late stages of his career, Detroit may be the place to end his career.
However, if he has the competitive juices and wants to join a team that will be a contender for the playoffs and has a strong chance of winning the Lombardi Trophy, Detroit will not be finished with his services in 2022.
It is likely that many top, high-level teams will seek the 31-year-old's services.
While it's tempting to imagine Wagner wearing a Lions uniform, the odds of it actually coming to fruition are slim.