USA Today via Reuters
Nov 13, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Bobby Wagner (45) celebrates with defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) after a sack in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 13, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Bobby Wagner (45) celebrates with defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) after a sack in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Bobby Wagner has been a crucial part of the LA Rams’ defense. There’s no doubt that the linebacker is an asset. But for the second consecutive season, Wagner dropped a bombshell on fans. The LA Rams were unable to extend their 2021-22 season dominance. A slew of injuries to key players resulted in a subpar season where they did not make the playoffs this year. And now, Rams fans received news that left them shaking their heads in disappointment. Here’s a look at what happened.
Bobby Wagner left Rams fans disappointed
For the second consecutive season, Bobby Wagner is a free agent. Despite signing a 5 year $50 million deal with the Rams, the linebacker and the franchise have decided to mutually part ways. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, clearance of cap space prompted this decision from the franchise’s perspective.
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Rams and nine-time All-Pro LB Bobby Wagner mutually agreed Thursday to part ways, sources tells ESPN.
Rams needs more cap space and Wagner wants to win. He will now be a notable part of this year’s free-agent class. pic.twitter.com/1A3KvudOhj
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 23, 2023
Wagner has been nothing short of a key asset on the field. As a defensive weapon, he’s sure to be heavily sought after by other franchises. But the most recent update about the 32-year-old makes his departure from the Rams even more saddening.
According to ‘The Athletic’s’ Jourdan Rodrigue, Wagner donated $5000 to a deceased part-time employee’s family. The Rams employee passed away earlier this month. Considering this gesture, the LB’s move from the franchise is bittersweet.
Bobby Wagner donated $5,000 to help the family of a part-time #Rams employee who passed away earlier this month, according to @JourdanRodrigue
This is the type of news we wanted to hear today, not that the team moved on from him 👏❤
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 24, 2023
Rodrigue’s Twitter thread also delves into other details of the linebacker’s move. Here’s how the NFL world reacted to the news.
The NFL world reacts to Wagner’s departure
Apart from Rams fans, the NFL world quickly began pitching for Wagner to make his way to their favorite teams. Some users said,
Come to Baltimore, should've here all along @Ravens #RavensFlock
— Tpindell (@Tpindell) February 23, 2023
he’s a lion
— will: JJ McCarthy Truther (@wrhiv_72) February 23, 2023
Future Pittsburgh Steeler
— PICKETTSBURGH (@PickettsburghKP) February 23, 2023
One fan is of the belief that the decision was not mutual and strongly stated:
Mutually agreed my ass! They cut him!!
— Van (@vanman_1000) February 23, 2023
Another fan solemnly said,
He is not going to win with LA
— Shay Nanna (@ShayMN) February 23, 2023
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This user’s disbelief was expressed through a GIF.
WHAT pic.twitter.com/O8XMfF5eNT
— Crumbletakes (@Crumbletakes) February 23, 2023
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As of now, Bobby Wagner’s future is uncertain. If the LB really believed that the Rams were not going to be Super Bowl-bound again, could he move to a team whose chances are higher? Where do you think the LB is headed? Let us know in the comments!
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