Free agent D.J. Wonnum signs one-year deal with Detroit Lions Free agent defensive end D.J. Wonnum has agreed to a one-year contract with the Detroit Lions, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal is worth up to $6 million and marks Wonnum’s return to the NFL after a two-year stint with the Carolina Panthers. Wonnum joined the Panthers in 2023 but did not make an impact during his time with the team. He was sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to a quad injury sustained while playing for the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. The injury limited his playing time, and he was only able to record four sacks during the 2024 campaign despite starting all 15 games. His lack of production stood out, especially given the Panthers’ struggles on defense. The team ranked near the bottom of the NFL in sacks and quarterback pressures, and Wonnum’s contributions were minimal. This made him a potential trade asset, as the Panthers would have had to pay him $825,000 in dead money if they re-signed him. Wonnum was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Over his six seasons with the team, he recorded 30 career sacks, including eight in both 2021 and 2023. His departure from Carolina signals a move to a new opportunity with the Lions, where he aims to regain his form and contribute more effectively. ESPN’s David Newton contributed to this report.#minnesota_vikings #detroit_lions #carolina_panthers #adam_schefter #d_j_wonnum
