In 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, linebacker Bobby Wagner played 18 games against the Arizona Cardinals. He missed two games in that decade. In those 18 games, he had 164 tackles, two sacks, 10 quarterback hits, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery he returned for a touchdown.
After the Seahawks released him, it appeared the Cardinals might not have to deal with him. However, the entire rest of the division, including the Cardinals, had interest in him.
On Thursday, he agreed a five-year, $50 million deal to sign with the defending champion Los Angeles Rams, so the Cardinals not only will continue to face Wagner twice a year, they now must face him on a defense that now has one of the best in the NFL at every level of the defense.
Aaron Donald is the best defensive lineman in the league. Wagner is one of the best linebackers in the NFL still, while Jalen Ramsey is one of the best defensive backs.
The Rams, coming off a Super Bowl win, have added receiver Allen Robinson on offense and Wagner on defense.
The are not backing down.
If the Cardinals are going to make it through the NFC West, it won’t be easier.
The Rams’ linebacking corps was arguably one of their bigger weaknesses. That is no longer the case.
The Rams got better and the Cardinals will still have to face Wagner twice a year for perhaps another five seasons.
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