Commanders are signing 6-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner, AP sources say

WASHINGTON — Bobby Wagner is going to the Washington Commanders as they make a major splash in rebuilding their defense.

The six-time All-Pro linebacker has agreed to join the team, according to two people familiar with the deal. One person confirmed it’s a one-year contract worth up to $8.5 million with $6 million in guaranteed money.

The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because it had not been announced.

Wagner, who turns 34 this summer, led the NFL with 183 tackles last season. He becomes the centerpiece of the defense under Dan Quinn and is another player the new coach is plenty familiar with: Wagner played two seasons for him with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013 and ‘14, winning a Super Bowl together in the process.

“Seattle, we’ve done this before,” Wagner posted on social media, referencing leaving the Seahawks in 2022 for one season with the Los Angeles Rams before returning in 2023. “You know what it is. It’s always love. Until we meet again. I’m around.”

Signing Wagner is one of many changes new general manager Adam Peters is making after going into free agency with the most salary cap space in the league. Also coming are running back Austin Ekeler, veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, tight end Zach Ertz and several others, including linebacker Frankie Luvu, safety Jeremy Chinn, center Tyler Biadasz and defensive end Dorrance Armstrong.