Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner Hopes To 'Stand Test Of Time' in Return

After one season away with the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner returns to the only team he called home before leaving as a salary cap casualty in 2022.

The Seattle Seahawks kick off the new season on Sunday against their NFC West division rival Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field. After a successful season that saw a 10-7 record and a playoff appearance, the team is poised to improve behind starting quarterback Geno Smith.

But the offense isn't the only reason to be optimistic for Seahawks fans. The defense will also be improved. Part of that improvement comes by virtue of the return of a prodigal son in fan-favorite linebacker, Bobby Wagner.

After one season away in Los Angeles, Wagner returns to the only team he called home before leaving as a salary cap casualty in 2022. Wagner was part of the now-famous Super Bowl-winning team from 2014, which captured the Lombardi after a 43-8 man-handling of the Denver Broncos.

“When we’re in there, young guys will ask, ‘who is left on that team?’ I didn’t have to look at the list. ... It’s been that way for a (couple) of years,” Wagner said. “It’s crazy. But also, as a rookie, I wanted to be one of the guys that lasted the longest regardless of name, regardless of the accolades. I wanted to be one of the people that could stand the test of time.”

Entering his 12th season in the league, he was an easy choice for the team to bring back, especially due to Seattle's uncertainty about Jordyn Brooks' injury situation. And now, Seahawks fans will cheer on Wagner and Smith - rather than Wagner and Wilson - as the team hopes to take another step forward in the postseason

Smith came into last season battling for the starting role with newcomer Drew Lock. Lock arrived in town via a trade with the Broncos that sent Russell Wilson to Denver, in a move that put Smith's future with the team in question. But Smith. prevailed and had a career season, earning him a new contract and the starting job for the foreseeable future.

Wagner is likely in the final chapter of his career, while Smith is just beginning his Seahawks saga. But both could be part of a new story of Seahawks success on the field.