Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams aren’t sitting back and basking in the glory of winning the Super Bowl. They continue to find ways to load up the roster with difference makers; Troy Reeder goes out and Bobby Wagner comes in. McVay discussed how Wagner’s work and leadership will be vital to the Rams in 2022.
McVay has the utmost respect for Wagner
“There are a few guys in this league that you can go to after games because you respect their work and their approach, not just physically but mentally. Bobby’s always been one of those guys. Just a lot of respect for everything he was asked to do in that system… I also think leadership was a really big part of it. We’re losing some great dressing room leaders.”
I don’t think there’s an offense coach in the league who doesn’t respect what Wagner does on the field, especially those who have trained against him. His leadership is also needed as the Rams have lost organization pillars like Andrew Whitworth and Robert Woods and defensive sparks like Eric Weddle and Von Miller.
Ernest Jones was drafted in part for reminding Rams of Wagner
“I also think it’s huge for Ernest Jones. A lot of the reasons we designed Ernest Jones at this point is because he had some qualities and traits that remind us of Bobby, so we’re really excited to be able to bring those two together.”
They are similar in physique, playstyle, and mental state. I can’t wait to see them on the field together. Combining the two adds a level of physicality that should have an immediate impact against enemy rushing attacks.
Rams head coach Sean McVay said some of the appealing reasons for adding LB Bobby Wagner are his ability to fit into any system and his leadership qualities. Given the off-season variance from a leadership standpoint, that last part was big.
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) April 4, 2022
McVay felt Wagner’s influence in the film against the San Francisco 49ers
“His versatility and his familiarity with our division, you mention the 9s. I’ve always felt it when you watch a 9 series movie and you see how present it is. That was consistently against him and he’s going to be a hitter for us and help us in so many ways.
That was one of the biggest reasons why I was happy about the signing. I expect Wagner’s knowledge, physicality and success to pay off against the 49ers and possibly even help the Rams start a winning streak against San Francisco.
McVay on potential Hall of Famers at every level of defense
“We play Madden here. No, it’s great. I think one of the fun things for me is to be around these greats, like I said, you learn from them and they make you a better coach… It’s a real credit to the atmosphere created by our players created why Bobby wanted to be here.”
Not only is LA playing Madden, they’ve also lifted the salary cap. Jokes aside, this defense has a chance to be really special. Unlike Odell Beckham and Von Miller, Wagner will have an entire offseason with the Rams and won’t have to deal with it in the blink of an eye.