Why Would LB Bobby Wagner Sign with Detroit Lions?

Seattle Seahawks All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner was informed by the front office the team planned to release him

Ahead of free agency, the team publicly expressed hope Wagner would return to anchor their defense. 

"At this time of the year, there's a lot of guys that are in a position where we've got to figure out where everybody fits together. Bobby's been such a steady part of it and we'd love to be able to play with him, so we'll work towards that. If we can do that, we'll do it," head coach Pete Carroll told reporters at last week's NFL Combine. 

The roster decision saves the AFC West powerhouse $16.6 million in cash and salary cap space.  

According to ESPN, "Wagner, the Seahawks' all-time tackles leader, was entering the final year of the deal with a non-guaranteed $16.35 million base salary and another $250,000 available in per-game roster bonuses. His $20.35 million cap charge was an unwieldly figure even with the Seahawks in OK cap shape -- and even with Wagner coming off a 170-tackle season that earned him his eighth Pro Bowl nod in 10 seasons.”

Wagner will turn 32 years old in June and now is set to become a free agent in the NFL for the first time. 

There is still a small possibility the veteran linebacker could return back to Seattle on a much less expensive and more team-friendly contract. 

Obviously, the Detroit Lions and their young defense should consider adding a veteran of Wagner's experience and savvy.