Bobby Wagner NFL top 100 ranking exposes glaring Commanders issue

Bobby Wagner’s placement at No. 81 on the NFL Top 100 ranking has become a focal point, suggesting a broader issue for the Washington Commanders’ defense. ESPN reports Wagner recorded 162 tackles in all 17 games last season, ranking fifth in the league, while Pro Football Focus lists 158. Wagner also totaled 4.5 sacks per ESPN (PFF has him at 5), plus two interceptions and four forced fumbles. PFF grades him as an elite run defender with a 90.3 rating and says he missed eight tackles. However, the article attributes the perceived gap between analytics and the “eye test” to reduced aggression and, especially, pass coverage. It notes Washington’s defensive decline from 2024 to 2025 and says Wagner allowed a 107.2 passer rating when targeted. The ranking also comes as he is still a free agent heading into 2026.