Commanders' $9 million problem is becoming impossible to defend

The Washington Commanders started well in the first half of their Monday Night Football clash with the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 8. But it didn't take long for the wheels to fall off after that.

Washington's problems were exposed by the Chiefs. They made the required adjustments, and the Commanders' coaching staff had no answer. What followed was another meltdown with the national NFL audience watching, moving head coach Dan Quinn's squad to 3-5 with their aspirations hanging by a thread.

And the Commanders have a $9 million problem that is becoming impossible to defend.

Bobby Wagner is an all-time great. He's a first ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer, a six-time All-Pro, and a 10-time Pro Bowler. The credentials speak for themselves, and his impact on Washington's culture shift under Quinn's guidance last season was integral.

Commanders have a massive ongoing problem with veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner

Wagner is still getting his tackles — 10 more versus the Chiefs. He even secured an interception when tight end Travis Kelce botched a catch attempt that gratefully fell into the linebacker's grasp. However, that only tells half the story.

Many of Wagner's tackles are coming from behind the ball carrier these days, suggesting he's getting to the contact point more slowly than usual. His coverage capabilities are a complete liability, and it looked like the Utah State product had cement in his cleats compared to those he's tasked with covering.

Watching Wagner being flat-footed and sluggish in pursuit when cruelly matched up against wide receiver Rashee Rice was painful to watch. Teams have been actively isolating him in coverage all season. It's a recipe for success, yet nothing is being done to mask this failing effectively.