In the wake of the NFL Draft, former fourth-round pick linebacker DJ Wonnum could be a cut candidate during training camp. According to Bleacher Report, they believe the Panthers will cut ties with the linebacker since they got some talent during the draft. The Carolina Panthers have been revamping their defense this entire offseason after attempting to repair the offensive unit for quarterback Bryce Young. Since they’ve let go of veteran Jadeveon Clowney, the future doesn’t look promising for Wonnum, as the Panthers are still in rebuilding mode for the future moving forward.
Originally selected in the 2020 NFL Draft, the former South Carolina product had one of the worst starts since arriving in Carolina for the 2024 campaign. Following a quad injury, the Panthers put him on the reserve/PUP list to start the season, but he still had a solid year, recording four sacks for the defense. These aren’t high numbers, and since he looks more of a liability, it doesn’t make sense for the team to keep him around anymore. After drafting Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, as well as signing free agent Patrick Jones, they have a lot of moving pieces in the edge rotation.
Wonnum probably won’t have the best market, but he might not fit with new free agent signing Tershawn Wharton if he stays. There are always teams looking for linebackers to bolster their defensive department, and these two rosters could sign Wonnum if he becomes available on the market.
RUMOR: Panthers 27-Sack Fourth Rounder DJ Wonnum a Cut Candidate – Ravens, Chargers Next Possible Fits
More Reinforcements for Baltimore
Last season, the Ravens didn’t see much progression from the defense, and it looks like it will get worse before it gets better. They lost Malik Harrison this offseason, which is a huge blow to the defense, especially for Trenton Simpson, who had one of the worst campaigns for the defense. Kyle Van Noy isn’t getting any younger, so they need a linebacker in the worst way possible. As of this posting, Odafe Oweh brings a lot of upside, but there’s been speculation about his future in this unit since he’s entering the final year of his contract.
Baltimore is one of the best teams in the league and always knows how to turn defensive players into explosive talent. Wonnum hasn’t yet reached his spark in his abilities, and there’s no better way to do it than with the Ravens. He doesn’t need to start right away, but make a few plays to make an impact to earn a role. In the right situation, he’s a better player than Simpson.
Harbaugh in the Trench
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh loves winning games in the trenches, but the team needs a different direction if that’s the case. They lost one of the most underrated defenders in Poona Ford, and they’re going to have to figure out how to have the same explosive defense with Da’Shawn Hand as somewhat of a capable addition. Even though they’re bringing back Teair Tart in their unit, there’s no guarantee the defense will be the same. Wonnum had a rough campaign last year, but the Chargers always find a way to bring a spark back in Jesse Minter’s philosophy, and he could do that teaming alongside veteran Khalil Mack.
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