Bobby Wagner, the former Seattle Seahawks linebacker, recently addressed graduates at Utah State University’s graduation ceremony. Wagner, who played for the Seahawks for a decade and again in 2023, returned to his alma mater on April 29 to serve as the commencement speaker. During the event, Utah State bestowed upon him an honorary doctoral degree.
‘Dr’ Wagner’s Speech
Wagner took the stage and immediately addressed his new title. “If you didn’t know, my name is now Dr. Bobby Wagner,” he announced. Wagner then jokingly instructed his family members to update his contact information. “And to any family members here, you need to update my name in your phone. It’s ‘Dr.’ now. I will no longer respond to ‘Bobby.’ It’s Dr. only.”
Addressing a crowd of over 6,000 graduates, Wagner mixed humour with personal anecdotes. He joked about the presence of a Target store in town, a convenience not available during his time as a student. Wagner then shared the story of his decision to attend Utah State.
He recounted a winter visit to the university with his mother where he received a scholarship offer. Despite having no other offers, Wagner wanted to take a chance. “She told me I either accept the scholarship, or I wasn’t coming back home,” Wagner said. “Back then there was no Ubers. There was no NIL. I wasn’t getting paid. So, I accepted the scholarship.”
Wagner told the graduating class, “One of the things that taught me was the place you least expect to be is the place you’re exactly supposed to be.”
From Utah State to the NFL
Wagner’s career at Utah State saw him become a four-year starter. He led the team to their first bowl game in 14 years. Wagner also tied the school record with 446 career tackles. After his time at Utah State, Wagner was drafted by the Seahawks in the second round of the 2012 draft.
Accolades and Off-Field Pursuits
The honorary doctorate is just one of many achievements for Wagner. He won a Super Bowl with the Seahawks. He is also a 10-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro. Wagner was also named the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
Wagner’s speech at the Walter Payton award ceremony was also laced with humour. “I really didn’t think I was going to win this award,” Wagner said. “I almost didn’t even come to be honest. I’m glad I did.”
While accepting that honour back in February, Wagner delivered a speech that balanced humour with thoughtful reflection and gratitude for his mother who died of stroke complications when Wagner was a student athlete at Utah State.
Beyond his NFL career, Wagner is involved in various projects, including the Phenia Mae Fund and FAST54, which promote stroke education in honour of his mother. Wagner also recently earned his MBA from the Howard University School of Business.
Wagner’s 15-minute speech touched on the importance of building connections and pursuing personal goals. The speech also included some well received trash talk.