The Detroit Lions are signing former Carolina Panthers defensive end DJ Wonnum to a one-year contract worth up to $6 million, according to his agents Kevin Conner and Robert Brown of Universal Sports Management.
Wonnum, 26, enters his fifth NFL season after spending the 2023 campaign in Carolina. Prior to joining the Panthers, Wonnum was a consistent contributor for the Minnesota Vikings, who originally selected him in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of South Carolina. Throughout his professional career, Wonnum has established himself as a reliable pass rusher, accumulating 23.0 total sacks and 171 tackles across 62 career games.
During the 2023 season, Wonnum appeared in 15 games and recorded eight sacks, 62 tackles, and 15 quarterback hits. He also showcased his playmaking ability with a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. His addition to the Detroit roster provides the Lions with a proven veteran on the edge to pair with Aidan Hutchinson as the team looks to strengthen its pass rush for the 2024 season.
Wonnum's deal comes as the Lions continue to address defensive needs following their NFC Championship game appearance last season. The one-year structure allows the Lions to bolster their defensive front while providing Wonnum an opportunity to contribute to a contending roster. The deal was first reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network via the player's representation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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