Seahawks All-Time Leading Tackler Still a Free Agent After NFL Trade Deadline
Bobby Wagner remains without an NFL team following the conclusion of the 2026 trade deadline, leaving questions surrounding the future of one of the most accomplished linebackers of his generation.
The veteran linebacker, who holds the record as the Seattle Seahawks’ all-time leading tackler, has yet to secure a new contract despite an impressive 2025 campaign with the Washington Commanders. With the November 10 trade deadline now behind the league, Wagner’s continued availability has become an intriguing talking point as teams prepare for the final stretch of the regular season.
At 36, Wagner is still without a team after entering free agency in March when his contract with Washington expired. Interestingly, his situation is not necessarily a reflection of his performances on the field, considering the numbers he produced during his most recent NFL campaign.
The former Seahawks star finished the 2025 season with 162 tackles, 4.5 sacks and two interceptions, starting all 17 games for the Commanders. Those numbers demonstrated that he could still contribute at a high level despite approaching the latter stages of his playing career.
However, his prolonged absence from the NFL has raised questions about whether he is waiting for the right opportunity or considering life beyond professional football.
Von Miller Offers Interesting Insight Into Wagner’s Situation
One of the more interesting perspectives surrounding Wagner’s uncertain future came from former teammate Von Miller.
Miller, who shared the Washington locker room with Wagner during the 2025 season, suggested that the veteran linebacker would not struggle to find another team if he genuinely wanted to continue playing.
According to Miller, Wagner possesses several interests outside football and has demonstrated that he has plenty of opportunities beyond his playing career.
Miller also highlighted Wagner’s academic achievements, revealing that the linebacker earned his master’s degree while playing during the previous season.
His comments have added another dimension to the conversation surrounding Wagner’s availability, particularly given that there has been no official announcement of his retirement.
Wagner previously indicated his intention to return for another NFL season, but his continued absence has left his next move uncertain.
Could the Seahawks Consider Bringing Back Their Franchise Legend?
Naturally, Wagner’s availability has also sparked questions about a possible return to Seattle.
The Seahawks selected him in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, and he quickly developed into one of the most important defensive players in franchise history.
During his initial decade-long spell with the organisation, Wagner became a central figure in Seattle’s defensive success, helping the franchise capture its first Super Bowl championship in Super Bowl XLVIII.
He eventually departed in 2022 before spending a season with the Los Angeles Rams. Wagner subsequently returned to Seattle in 2023, adding another impressive chapter to his already remarkable career.
His achievements with the Seahawks remain outstanding. Wagner finished his Seattle career with 1,564 tackles, establishing himself as the franchise’s all-time leading tackler.
He also collected multiple All-Pro honours and Pro Bowl selections while building a reputation as one of the most consistent linebackers of his era.
Nevertheless, a potential reunion with Seattle might not be straightforward.
The Seahawks have continued developing their defensive personnel, with Ernest Jones IV playing an important role in the middle of Mike Macdonald’s defence. Younger linebackers, including Tyrice Knight and Drake Thomas, have also been part of the team’s plans.
Consequently, bringing Wagner back would require the organisation to consider how his experience and leadership could fit into its existing defensive structure.
Wagner’s Experience Could Still Attract NFL Contenders
Despite his age, Wagner’s most recent performances suggest that he could still offer considerable value to a team looking for defensive leadership and experience.
His ability to read offensive formations, organise teammates and make important defensive plays remains an attractive part of his overall profile.
For a contender dealing with injuries or seeking additional depth at linebacker, having a player with Wagner’s experience could prove beneficial during the closing stages of the season.
Importantly, the conclusion of the NFL trade deadline does not automatically end his chances of returning to action. Since he is an unrestricted free agent, Wagner can still negotiate and sign with an interested team, subject to the league’s roster and eligibility rules.
For now, however, the former Seahawks defensive cornerstone remains available, with his next career decision still unclear.
Whether Wagner eventually returns to Seattle, joins another championship contender or decides that his playing days are behind him, his legacy in the NFL is already firmly established.
The biggest question is no longer about what he has achieved on the field, but whether the Seahawks legend is prepared to begin another chapter in his remarkable football career.