The Seattle Seahawks officially have released Super Bowl winner and All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner yesterday evening, per ESPN. Wagner has been the core and centerpiece of that Seahawk defense for 10 seasons now. This split was sudden and pretty shocking to the sports world. However, it seems the Seahawks are rebuilding. As a result, it is only fitting and appropriate to deliberate on providing him with an early release before matters escalate beyond remedy.
“This is a tough day for the team,” stated general manager John Schneider. “Bobby has been the heart of our defense for the last 10 seasons and has always represented our organization admirably. He is an exceptional player and individual, and we will forever appreciate his contributions. Bobby will always be part of the Hawks family.”
One would only hope after being in a place for ten years it’d be hard to walk away. Wagner thanked the franchise in a tweet, stating “will forever be my home.”
Ironically, this came a day after future Hall of Famer quarterback Russell Wilson was traded to the Denver Broncos. Undeniably, these are the two franchise cornerstones. They along with the “Legion of Boom” helped shape up dominant culture in Seattle. It’s clear Wagner didn’t seem happy he was traded. He proves to be having discussions with future Hall of Fame cornerback Richard Sherman. On Twitter, Wagner addresses Sherman as a prophet. Later, Wagner’s tweet was followed by an iconic quote from Batman by Sherman.
“You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain” https://t.co/Neavm4L0NV
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) March 8, 2022
Seattle Seahawks consequences for releasing Wagner
The Seahawks have arrived at the conclusion of severing ties with Wagner. As a longstanding member of the team his impactful contributions over time cannot be denied.
In acknowledging his contributions. Coach Pete Carroll stated, “Bobby is truly one of the greatest Seahawks of all time. His leadership, both in and outside of football serves as a testament to his strong character and unwavering commitment. Bobby has set an impressive example for others to follow. And we will continue to support him as he progresses towards induction into the Hall of Fame.”
However, this move does save nearly $17 million in cap space. While also leaving a gaping whole literally in the middle of your defense. Wagner is becoming a free agent for the first time in his career. Oddly, he will serve as his own agent, which he also did when negotiating his previous deal, three years for $54 million in 2019.
Wagner remains the Seahawks’ all-time tackler leader and earned his eighth Pro Bowl in 10 seasons. The uncertainty of Wagner’s return boiled over into the combine where Carroll left the door open:
“We plan to team up with Bobby,” Carroll mentioned. “We enjoy playing alongside Bobby. He’s consistently performed well, had another impressive season. Bobby’s been a reliable part of our team, and we’re aiming to continue that collaboration.”
While Wagner may not be too happy with the decision, he understands its business and has an optimistic point of view on the situation.
“I get that there’s a business aspect, but I’m pretty positive about coming back,” Wagner mentioned in January. “I’m not stressing. I know I can’t control everything. My focus is on my part. I really care about this city, about the Seahawks.” I always wanted to be a part of a franchise’s good times and bad times and every time. So this is a team that I would love to be able to be a part of for a very, very long time.
“On my end, that’s where I’m at, that I’m a Seahawk until they tell me I’m not. So that’s my mindset. I don’t see it as that was my last game or this next game could be my next game.”
