The Baltimore Ravens could undergo quite the defensive makeover during the 2022 offseason. They have multiple key contributors from 2021 slated to become free agents in the next few days, and there are plenty of defensive needs that they need to address.
One of the more underrated areas where Baltimore could look to add an impact playmaker at is inside linebacker. While the team already has promising young players such as Patrick Queen and Malik Harrison at the position, they also have key free agents such as Josh Bynes, L.J. Fort and Chris Board.
One inside linebacker who the team could look at signing is the recently-released Bobby Wagner. The Seattle Seahawks parted with the 8x Pro Bowler shortly after they traded quarterback Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos, moving on from two franchise cornerstones in a matter of hours.
The 2022 season will mark Wagner’s 11th in the NFL, but he is still producing at an extremely high level on the field. He’s accumulated 1,383 tackles, 23.5 sacks, and 11 interceptions over the course of his career, turning himself into one of the best inside linebackers in the league.
The 8x All-Pro also has championship experience, playing in two Super Bowls, winning one. For a Ravens defense that could be getting younger during the 2022 offseason, Wagner’s veteran leadership would be extremely valuable.
From a money perspective, Wagner won’t come cheap. He’s shown that he can still help a team in the middle of their defense as a difference maker, and will get paid as such. While Baltimore has other pressing needs such as offensive line, defensive line and secondary, Wagner is too good of a player to not consider signing just because there are other areas to improve on the Ravens roster.