Bobby Wagner Honored as 2026 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year
In a moment of profound recognition, veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner was named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year on February 5, 2026. The prestigious award, presented at the NFL Honors ceremony in San Francisco, celebrates exceptional leadership and service beyond the football field, marking a career-defining achievement for the Washington Commanders star.
A Stellar Career Built on Consistency
Born on June 27, 1990, in Los Angeles, Bobby Wagner has established himself as one of the most decorated linebackers in modern NFL history. After playing college football at Utah State, he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft and quickly rose to prominence.
Over 14 remarkable seasons, Wagner has compiled an impressive resume:
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
- 11-time All-Pro (including six first-team honors)
- Super Bowl XLVIII champion with Seattle
- Recorded at least 100 tackles in every season of his career
- Leads all active NFL players in total tackles
After spending 11 seasons with the Seahawks, Wagner played one season with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022, returned briefly to Seattle in 2023, and joined the Washington Commanders in 2024. At 35 years old, he continues to be a defensive leader and tone-setter.
The Heart Behind the Honor: Community Service and Legacy
The award announcement came during a special Thursday night ceremony at the Palace of Fine Arts. Wagner used his acceptance speech to honor his mother, Phenia Mae Wagner, who died from stroke complications in 2012, just months before he was drafted into the NFL.
"She's the reason why I'm standing up here," Wagner emotionally stated at NFL Honors. "She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself."
This personal loss inspired Wagner to create the FAST54 Phenia Mae Fund, which focuses on:
- Stroke education and awareness
- Patient support initiatives
- Pediatric stroke research and care
The fund partners with several major healthcare institutions including Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Cedars-Sinai, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, and Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., where Wagner expanded efforts in 2025.
Beyond Football: A Multifaceted Leader
Wagner's community involvement extends well beyond his foundation. He actively participates in the NFL's Inspire Change initiative, supporting social justice reform and mental health awareness. Additionally, he runs the Tackle Everything Tech Tour, which introduces students from underserved communities to technology, entrepreneurship, and career pathways. He completed his third tour in Washington, D.C., in 2025.
Remarkably, Wagner maintained elite performance on the field alongside his extensive community work. During the 2025 NFL season, he recorded 162 tackles for the Commanders, ranking among the league leaders.
A Historic Achievement
After being nominated four previous times, Wagner finally received the Walter Payton honor, becoming the first Washington player to win the award since Hall of Famer Darrell Green in 1996. This recognition solidifies Wagner's status not just as an NFL star, but as the type of leader the league aspires to showcase—a player whose impact extends far beyond the gridiron through dedication, service, and inspirational leadership.
