“Man, you talk about instant credibility.”
Wagner played his college ball at Utah State and has been a six-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler.
It is no secret among Commanders nation (I’m still having trouble saying Commanders) that the linebacker play in recent years has been inadequate, meager, and weak.
“What a difference a year makes,” continued Fletcher. “Where our linebackers were last year, probably one of the worst (units) in the league, while this year number one by some people.”
Having played the position as well as he did and for as long as he did, Fletcher has great respect for Wagner’s accomplishments.
“Bobby is a future Hall of Famer, a perennial Pro Bowler, perennial All-Pro, he still brings play-making ability even at 34 years old. He reminds me of myself when I made the transition to DC. I was 32 years old when I signed with Washington.”
In 2012, Fletcher came to the Redskins as a proven, recognized, credentialed veteran in the league. He was going to be a leader on the field, and players were going to follow his lead. So, too, with Wagner, even if he is 34.
“Just bringing him in there first and foremost is for his leadership. He’s a great leader; he’s been on great defenses. He knows how to run the system that Dan Quinn wants to run.”
Quinn was the Seahawks defensive coordinator in the 2013 and 2014 seasons as Wagner began to shine in the NFL making All-Pro 1st team in 2014.
“But also, it’s one thing to be a leader. It’s another to also be able to make plays. He is still a high-level playmaker.”
Indeed, Wagner has led the NFL in tackles in 2016 (age 26), 2019 (age 29), and then, incredibly, with a career-high 183 combined tackles in 2023 at the age of 33.
Quinn is counting on Wagner’s leadership and disciplined approach to affect many of his new teammates. And if Wagner can have another good year at age 34, Quinn will be glad to take that as well.
