What Are The Steelers' Clear Chances Of Signing Elite LB Bobby Wagner In 2023?

Rumors continue to swirl around interest between the Pittsburgh Steelers and All-Pro cornerback, Jalen Ramsey. Will the team trade for him, or won't they is the question. Although unlikely, general manager, Omar Khan did say "everything's on the table right now" during his interview on Tuesday with the media at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, IN.

Another former member of the Seattle Seahawks has taken Steeler Nation by storm this offseason however, and that's All-Pro linebacker, Bobby Wagner. Wagner, 32, was selected by the Seahawks in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, and he was an important player for the team ever since. He is known for his exceptional tackling ability, speed, and intelligence on the field, and he has earned many accolades throughout his career.

Some of Wagner's notable achievements include:

- 8x Pro Bowl selection (2014-2021)

- 6x First Team All-Pro selection (2014, 2016-2020)

- NFL tackles leader (2016, 2019)

- Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)

- Seattle Seahawks all-time leading tackler

Overall, Wagner is considered one of the best linebackers in the NFL and was widely regarded as a key player for the Seahawks.

Wagner was finally released just about a year ago on March 8th and ended up signing what was a five-year, $50 million contract with the Los Angeles Rams. After just one season in L.A., the Rams are releasing Wagner per NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, which will not officially occur until the start of the new league year on March 15, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo notes. This surprising cut comes after an impressive season where Wagner finished the year playing in all 17 games. He recorded 124 total tackles, 6 sacks, 2 interceptions and 5 passes defensed. 

With the inside linebacker room a little murky in Pittsburgh with Devin Bush, Robert Spillane, and Marcus Allen all being unrestricted free agents this offseason (not to mention Myles Jack possibly being a cap casualty), the idea of Wagner in the Steel City is beginning to look more and more like the perfect match. 

But what are the realistic chances of that actually happening?

Can the Steelers Sign Bobby Wagner for a Reasonable Price?

Steelers.com's Bob Labriola spoke to this very question on Tuesday in his latest Asked & Answered segment. A fan asked: "With the Lost Angeles Rams cutting inside linebacker Bobby Wagner, do you think the Steelers can sign him for a reasonable price?" The Steelers editor and insider had this to say:

ANSWER: "Reasonable" is a relative term. Bobby Wagner is an 11-year veteran inside linebacker who has been voted first-team All-Pro 6 times, as well as being one of 3 inside linebackers voted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame All-2010s team. Bobby Wagner also will be 33 in June, and over his 11 seasons he has played in 184 games (regular season and playoffs). In his 168 regular season games, Wagner has played 10,698 defensive snaps and another 722 on special teams. Reports are that Wagner has been paid a bit more than $92 million in salary and bonuses since entering the NFL. Is Wagner content with that number, or is he looking for one big splash before he retires? If the Steelers have to present the highest offer in order to sign Wagner, it won't happen.

The mere thought of Wagner suiting up in black and gold would definitely give Steeler Nation something to be excited about, as he could be the first inside linebacker since Ryan Shazier was in the Steel City to truly bring back that dominate presence in the middle of the field. At this point however, it sounds like the ball is more on Wagner's court, than it is the Steelers.

What do yinz think? Would Wagner be open to settling for less money in Pittsburgh? Or do you think he still wants top dollar? Comment below or on how social media feeds!

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