The Seattle Seahawks have a major decision to make regarding star middle linebacker Bobby Wagner. Wagner has been one of the best linebackers in the NFL for several years and an integral component of the Seahawks’ legendary defensive unit in their golden years of 2013 and 2014.
Ever since the Legion of Boom met its demise, Wagner has undoubtedly been the most important player on the Seahawks’ defense. However, he is now 29 years old and the length of his prime is questionable. The Seahawks are expected to do one of two things – sign him to a contract extension to keep him for the long-term future or trade him to another team and receive significant compensation.
Wagner attended Seattle’s OTAs but was not a participant in drills. Obtaining a lucrative contract extension is the linebacker’s top priority and he is expected to become the highest-paid player at his position in the NFL. Given Wagner’s production over his seven-year career, it is safe to say that the Seahawks are seriously considering that route.
However, Seattle failed to come to an agreement on a contract extension with star safety Earl Thomas last offseason, which culminated in the team losing him to the Ravens in free agency. The then 29-year-old Thomas wished to obtain financial security in case he suffered a serious injury, which he did in Week 4. The Seahawks cannot afford to make the same mistake with Wagner.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported Wagner will attend the Seahawks’ training camp while remaining “cautious” about his participation. This is a sensible decision, as Wagner can convey to the team he wishes to remain in the Emerald City, but will not risk injuring himself without being paid what he feels he is worth. The bottom line is the Seahawks must make a decision on Wagner’s future before the 2019 NFL season kicks off on Sept. 5.
