The Washington Commanders knew they needed to upgrade the linebacking corps this offseason, and they did just that by signing Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu to join the team and reinvigorate their defense.

ESPN writer Jeremy Fowler conducted a survey among NFL executives, coaches and scouts to rank the top off-ball linebackers in the league, and while Wagner and Luvu didn’t make the final cut, they were recognized later in the article. Specifically, Wagner was named as an honorable mention.

“Not the athlete he once was but can still impact the game off instincts and leadership,” a veteran NFL defensive coach told Fowler.

READ MORE: Trade Idea Sends Aiyuk to Washington

The Commanders had the worst-ranked defense in the NFL last season, but with a new coach in Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator in Joe Whitt Jr., Washington should be on the rise, and Wagner and Luvu will help lead the team in that regard.

If the Commanders can have two of the best off-ball linebackers in the league, it could help kickstart the rebuild for Washington.

READ MORE: Breakout Cornerback from 2023 Class Further Stains Washington’s NFL Draft History

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2024 season.

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