Bobby Wagner @35
On June 27, 2025, the Washington Commanders celebrated the 35th birthday of linebacker Bobby Wagner. Born on June 27, 1990, in Los Angeles, Wagner has forged a legacy as one of the NFL’s most decorated and enduring defensive stalwarts.
A Legendary Career in Burgundy & Gold
Wagner joined the Commanders in 2024, bringing his fierce competitiveness, umpteen accolades, and veteran leadership to a new defense. In his first year with the team, he led Washington with 132 tackles, earned his 11th All‑Pro nod (second team), and secured a 10th Pro Bowl selection. His consistency—recording 100+ tackles in 13 straight seasons—places him alongside Hall of Famers like London Fletcher and behind only Fletcher’s streak of 14 consecutive seasons.
At 35, Wagner continues to defy age stereotypes. Coach Dan Quinn describes him as “somewhere getting better today,” a testament to Wagner’s relentless drive.
Off the Field: Leadership and Legacy
Bobby Wagner’s impact extends well beyond the gridiron. He’s a prominent advocate for mental health, social justice, and financial empowerment.
His Tackle Everything Tech Tour promotes entrepreneurship to the next generation, while his work with local nonprofits has earned him a nomination for the 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award—his third such nomination.
Furthermore, Wagner is pursuing an online MBA at Howard University, set to complete the degree by December 2025. He’s purposeful in preparing for life after football—a path he started carving early in his NFL career. He’s interned with Nike, Starbucks, and Microsoft and now aims to translate those experiences into entrepreneurial and ownership opportunities post-retirement.
Mentor, Teammate, Trailblazer
Wagner’s presence in the Commanders locker room has been invaluable. His rapport with quarterback Jayden Daniels is often described as “big brother–little brother,” with Wagner setting a standard in professionalism, preparation, and culture. He also contributes behind the scenes, guiding rookies like cornerback Jordan Magee and linebacker Frankie Luvu, creating an atmosphere of accountability and relentless work ethic.
Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. once labeled Wagner “a coach on the field,” and teammate Daron Payne praised his game intelligence and leadership. That presence—quiet, fierce, and consistent—has become the linchpin of the Commanders’ resurgence.
Celebrating 35: What Lies Ahead
As Wagner enters his 35th year, his impact shows no signs of slowing. He’s secured a one-year contract worth up to \$9.5 million (with \$8–9 million guaranteed) to stay in Washington. On the field, he’ll aim to anchor a defense aiming to re-establish itself in a competitive NFC East. Off the field, he’s on track to earn his MBA and continue building toward life beyond football—perhaps even ownership or executive roles.
Happy Birthday, Bobby Wagner! 🎉
From Los Angeles to Seattle to Washington, you’ve done more than tackle elite offenses—you’ve crafted a blueprint for integrity, tenacity, and purpose. At 35, you remain at the pinnacle: elite linebacker, community leader, mentor, MBA candidate—and one of Washington’s most respected figures. Here’s to another year of impact and excellence—on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.