The Seattle Seahawks took two linebackers in the 2019 NFL draft, Cody Barton and Ben Burr-Kirven, despite having an elite trio of starters in veterans Bobby Wagner, K.J. Wright and Mychal Kendricks.
They followed that up by using their first round pick in 2020 to take yet another linebacker, Jordyn Brooks, which certainly raised some eyebrows in the Emerald City.
Despite adding a handful of youngsters who are capable of playing middle linebacker, Bobby Wagner, who turns 30 this offseason, is not concerned about his job security, and is instead taking on an active role in helping the young players, including Brooks, succeed.
“If you all go back and listen to what I’ve said over the years, I’ve always been wanting to give away knowledge to anybody that comes and asks for the knowledge,” Wagner told Seattle media members earlier this week. “At the end of the day this is bigger than just football to me. This is young men getting a chance live out their dream and provide for their family. That’s how I see it. I don’t really see it the way everybody else sees it. I’m not going to sit here and just not speak to him or whatever. I want him to be as successful as possible, I want him to do as great as possible and I’m excited to have him. I think it’s going to be really fun.”
Brooks is expected to compete at weakside linebacker right away, which could push Wright into the SAM role vacated by Kendricks this offseason. That may not leave much room for Barton, who impressed in his brief time as a starter last year, although he will likely be a big factor on the special teams.
Wright also had offseason shoulder surgery, which could be part of the reason the team went with Brooks. If Wright is forced to miss any time, the team will have enough depth to replace him.
Wagner and Wright are the two longest tenured members of the Seahawks’ defense, and they are both well aware of their responsibilities not just on the field, but as leaders to the young players who come through – regardless of what position they play.
“I think as an older player, I want to see the guys do better from every aspect, whether it’s on the field and off the field,” Wagner continued. “Players come in and they don’t leave with what they came in with. I’ve seen it firsthand. And so if I can help players come in and leave with more than they came with, than I feel like I did a good job of leading.”
The Seahawks are hoping to get back on the field for training camp, which is set to begin in late July.
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