Most of the conversations surrounding contracts in Seattle have involved quarterback Russell Wilson. And for good reason. He’s led the team to two consecutive Super Bowl appearances.
However, former second-round pick Bobby Wagner has to be second on that list. The Utah State product recorded an average of over 140 tackles in his first three NFL seasons. During that span, Wagner, 24, has also recorded five interceptions and 15 passes defended.
Now considered one of the best middle linebackers in the league, Wagner is looking for a rather large payday.
ESPN’s John Clayton expects Wagner to demand between $8 and $10 million per season in extension negotiations.
That could very well create some issues for Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider, especially after the team acquired Jimmy Graham last month. With Russell Wilson set to become one of the highest-paid players in league history, it’s not yet known whether the Seahawks can afford Wagner’s demands.
And while Wilson has been an integral part of Seattle’s success, most will agree that it’s the team’s defense that has played the largest role in its back-to-back Super Bowl appearances.
To put Wagner’s expected salary demands into context, San Francisco 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman, widely considered the best inside linebacker in the league prior to missing last season, currently plays under a deal that averages $9 million annually.
There’s little question that Schneider is among the best in the business. He’s going to have to put some work in to retain Wagner beyond his contract year in 2015.
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