The deal is worth “up to” $9.5 million and includes a strong $8 million guaranteed. We would assume those $1.5 million in incentives are somewhat easily attainable for the 34-year-old ‘backer. Although he’s no longer quite the All-Pro of his prime, Wagner remains well above average in the middle of the field/defense. That is to say nothing of his leadership abilities and “veteran savvy.” Also extremely durable, Wagner is a decent bet to keep Father Time at bay for 2025.

This never really felt in doubt, despite the veteran linebacker missing the first two days of scheduled practices. Wagner was on the practice field Friday and will be good to go for Saturday’s divisional-round matchup against the Lions. Wagner didn’t appear to be hampered by his injury in last week’s win over the Buccaneers, so it’s possible this is something minor he’s working through.

That’s two DNPs for the veteran linebacker. Wagner led the Commanders with 132 tackles this year. He also totaled 10 TFLs plus two sacks. Losing him would be a big blow to a Washington defense set to face the NFL’s best offense in Detroit.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports the deal includes $6 million in guaranteed money and is worth up to $8.5 million. Dan Quinn served as the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator in Wagner’s second and third seasons in the NFL way back in 2013 and 2014. The two are now reunited in Washington as Quinn just signed on to be the Commanders’ head coach this offseason. Wagner picked up a league and career-high 183 tackles in 2023 while also finding 3.5 sacks and 11 TFLs. He earned his ninth Pro Bowl nod in the process. Wagner’s knowledge of Quinn’s system should make the move to Washington seamless as he enters his 13th NFL season.