Bobby Wagner: Seahawks’ Mike Macdonald HC Hire Won’t ‘Affect’ Free Agency Decision

Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIFebruary 3, 2024

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Impending free agent linebacker Bobby Wagner’s decision on whether to stay with the Seattle Seahawks or leave town will not be affected by the team’s decision to move on from head coach Pete Carroll for Mike Macdonald.

“No, it doesn’t affect anything,” Wagner told Grant Gordon of NFL.com on Friday at Pro Bowl Games practice.

“I wanna keep playing ball, I wanna keep showing I can play at a high level. I’m fortunate enough to be around a lot of these guys, but also guys like Ray Lewis and Peyton Manning and those guys, stealing knowledge from them, talking about how they were able to last as long as they did, so I’m excited about that, just figuring out what that looks that.”

Macdonald, the former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator, is now in Seattle after Carroll’s tenure ended following 14 seasons. Wagner, who played for Seattle from 2012-2021 and again in 2023, has been coached by Carroll for all 11 of his Seahawk seasons.

The nine-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro dominated once again in 2023, amassing an NFL-high 183 tackles (96 solo) and three-and-a-half sacks. Wagner, who will be 34 next year, appears to have plenty left in the tank for whatever team he chooses next.

A return to Seattle would obviously be a welcome sight for the Seahawks, although Wagner should be coveted after a tremendous season.

Carroll enjoyed great success in Seattle with Wagner, reaching the playoffs eight times with the linebacker calling the shots. The Seahawks also won two NFC titles and a Super Bowl during their time together as well.

But now Macdonald, the Baltimore Ravens’ former defensive coordinator, is running the show. He’s enjoying tremendous success as an assistant, notably leading Baltimore to the NFL’s No. 1 ranked scoring defense. If anything, his presence should be an asset for any impending free agents who are considering Seattle.

For now, though, Wagner’s future NFL home is unknown, although the Seahawks and other teams would welcome him with open arms.