Bobby Wagner attended Colony High School in Ontario, California. Considered only a two-star recruit by Rivals.com, Wagner's only offer came from Utah State, which he accepted.
Wagner attended Utah State University from 2008 to 2011. A four year starter, Wagner recorded 445 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and four interceptions during his career. As a senior in 2011, Wagner was the WAC Defensive Player of the Year after recording 147 tackles, four sacks, and two interceptions.
In the 2012 NFL Draft, Wagner was selected in round 2, pick 47 by the Seattle Seahawks. Wagner helped lead the Seahawks to a 43-8 win over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII.