The Detroit Lions have reached an agreement with former Carolina Panthers defensive end DJ Wonnum on a one-year contract, according to his agents Kevin Conner and Robert Brown of UniSports Management.
The deal is reportedly worth up to $6 million for the upcoming season. Wonnum, a veteran edge rusher, joins the Lions' defensive front after spending the previous portion of his career with the Panthers and the Minnesota Vikings. The agreement was confirmed Tuesday by Adam Schefter of ESPN via the player's representation.
Wonnum, 28, brings significant experience back to the NFC North. Originally a fourth-round pick by the Vikings in the 2020 NFL Draft out of South Carolina, Wonnum recorded 23 sacks during his four-year tenure in Minnesota. His most recent stint in Carolina saw him continue to serve as a reliable rotational pass rusher before entering the free-agent market.
The addition of Wonnum provides the Lions with veteran depth on the edge as they look to bolster a defense that helped lead the team to a deep postseason run last year. He is expected to complement a defensive line anchored by Aidan Hutchinson. Financial specifics beyond the $6 million maximum value have not yet been disclosed.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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