The Seattle Seahawks released veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner earlier this week, and the way things were handled did not sit well with the 31-year-old.
Wagner griped following his release, implying he had heard about it through the media. That’s a harsh way to learn about an impending divorce, especially after spending 10 years with the franchise while being considered one of their all-time greats.
But Wagner has no time to sit around and sulk. He immediately becomes one of the best available veteran free agents, and rumors of potential interest are already heating up. The Pittsburgh Steelers were initially atop that list, but ESPN’s Jeremy Fowlwer has pumped the brakes on that.
While appearing on 93.7 The Fan, Fowler reported that Wagner is unlikely to sign on with the Steelers and instead prefers to play in Los Angeles.
Great insider @JFowlerESPN on @937theFan on free agent rumors: "I don't think Bobby Wagner is going to happen for the Steelers. I'm hearing he loves LA."
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) March 11, 2022
So, would that be the Rams or the Chargers?
The Rams are nearly $20 million over the cap ceiling with less than a week remaining until free agency. They also intend to re-sign wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and linebacker Von Miller, so their hands may be tied. That leaves the Chargers, who have a need at linebacker and will enter the new league year with plenty of cap space.
Wagner would likely prefer the Rams to the Chargers so that he could square off against Seattle twice per season, but the final decision will be monetary. Only one Los Angeles team has the finances to make a move.
Photo: Oct 25, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks middle linebacker Bobby Wagner (54) walks to the locker room following a 13-10 loss against the New Orleans Saints at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
