While the Los Angeles Rams talked about running things back after winning the Super Bowl, the offseason has played out much differently so far.
Among the biggest losses for L.A. are Von Miller, who signed a big deal with the Buffalo Bills, and Robert Woods, who was traded to the Tennessee Titans.
The Rams have made one splash signing in wide receiver Allen Robinson, but with Miller and Woods departing and Matthew Stafford signing a team-friendly extension, they do still have some money to spend.
One player who would make sense for L.A. is inside linebacker Bobby Wagner. The perennial Pro Bowler and L.A. native was released by the Seattle Seahawks this offseason and the Rams have been among the teams to express interest.
Now, it appears a deal could be on the horizon as Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is reporting that he is visiting the Rams and there is mutual interest in him signing with the team:
The #Rams are loading up again? Sources say six-time All-Pro LB Bobby Wagner is visiting them and there is mutual interest in doing a deal. A potential huge defensive addition.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 23, 2022
Rams general manager Les Snead also spoke on the possibility during a recent press conference, revealing that they have done their due diligence on Wagner, via Michael Duarte of NBC:
Les Snead admitted they “talked about” Bobby Wagner, and met with defensive staff to break down film and see if he would be a fit for the #LARams
— Michael J. Duarte (@michaeljduarte) March 22, 2022
It’s been a while since the Rams have had an inside linebacker anywhere near Wagner’s caliber as they typically prioritize other positions.
With Ernest Jones’ emergence and Travin Howard returning in 2022, the Rams don’t exactly have a need at the position, although there’s no doubt that adding Wagner makes any team better.
The Rams also make sense from Wagner’s point of view considering they play in his hometown, will be competing for Super Bowls and play in the same division as the Seahawks, so he can get revenge on the team that released him twice a year.
It seems that both sides have interest in a partnership, so it will be interesting to see if the stars align and Les Snead can make it happen.