Wagner graduated from Oconomowoc High School before attending the University of Wisconsin, where he played college football.
He missed out on a roster spot with the Vikings but ended up signing a contract with the Packers halfway through the 1976 NFL season.
[3] The Wisconsin State Journal noted that Wagner was a "key member of the Packer specialty teams" and recorded the most tackles (13 solo, 10 assisted) during punt and kick returns of any player on the Packers during the 1977 NFL season.
After playing for the Eagles during the preseason, he was waived again and returned home to work as a salesman for his father's electronics business.
[4] Over a five year career with the Packers and Eagles, Wagner played in 61 games, recording 14 kick returns for 181 yards, while also recovering three fumbles.