Bobby Wagner still feels at top of his game returning to Seahawks for 12th season

RENTON, Wash. (AP) — Hanging on a wall of the Seattle Seahawks’ indoor practice facility is a banner listing the names of the players and coaches responsible for bringing the franchise the only Super Bowl title it owns.

Many of the players listed have moved on to other phases of their lives. Most of the coaches are no longer around either.

Bobby Wagner thinks about that on occasion when he sees that banner and has his name listed. He’s about to enter his 12th season in the NFL, is one of two active players remaining from that Super Bowl team 10 years ago, and the only one still wearing a Seahawks uniform.

The rarity of his longevity isn’t lost on Wagner, who is back with the Seahawks after a one-year sabbatical in Los Angeles, looking to put together what’s likely a final chapter to his career

“When we’re in there, young guys will ask, ‘who is left on that team?’ I didn’t have to look at the list. I know it’s me and Russell (Wilson). It’s been that way for a (couple) of years,” Wagner said. “It’s crazy. But also, as a rookie, I wanted to be one of the guys that lasted the longest regardless of name, regardless of the accolades. I wanted to be one of the people that could stand the test of time.”

For his 12th season, Wagner has returned to the familiarity that he’s known for most of his career. An opportunity at a reunion with the Seahawks became available last offseason as Seattle had uncertainty about Jordyn Brooks’ recovery from a major knee injury.

That means when the regular season begins on Sunday with the Seahawks hosting the Rams, No. 54 will be back in the middle of Seattle’s defensive huddle.

There are few players more beloved in the history of the franchise. For his play on the field. For his work in the community. Wagner’s one season spent with the Rams last season was the result of Seattle making a salary cap move, not a decision of Wagner’s volition.