The Denver Broncos’ proposed trade for Los Angeles Chargers inside linebacker Daiyan Henley fell through, creating controversy over how the deal was handled. Although the dispute may fade from the headlines, the failed trade highlighted a need that remains: more depth at inside linebacker.
Denver’s starters, Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, have played well, but the team has limited backup options. Bobby Wagner, a veteran linebacker who remains available, could give the Broncos an experienced addition for the stretch run.
## Denver’s Inside Linebacker Depth Is a Concern
Singleton has been especially productive. At 32, he leads the NFL with 107 tackles through nine games and ranks second with 51 solo tackles. He is also within reach of Hardy Nickerson’s single-season record of 214 tackles, set with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1993.
If Singleton or Strnad were sidelined, the Broncos would have Karene Reid and Jordan Turner as their available replacements. That limited depth makes the position a potential concern.
## Wagner Could Bring Experience and Production
Bobby Wagner has been identified as a top bargain among available free agents. At 36, he offers a different skill set from Henley, but his experience and leadership could help reinforce Denver’s front seven.
Wagner is an 11-time All-Pro and 10-time Pro Bowler. He has recorded more than 100 tackles in each of his 14 NFL seasons, including at least 130 in each of his last 10. In 2025, while playing for Washington, he posted 162 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 11 pressures, four pass breakups and two interceptions. He allowed an 89 passer rating in coverage. Though he is not considered an elite coverage defender, he can still contribute on all three downs.
Wagner’s 2025 total made him the third player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 career tackles and the 15th to reach 1,000 career solo tackles. Former Washington linebacker London Fletcher finished with 2,039 tackles, while Pro Football Hall of Famer Ray Lewis recorded 2,059. Wagner needs 60 more tackles to pass Lewis’ career mark. He played the 2025 season on a one-year, $9 million contract, and his future remains uncertain.
