The Detroit Lions are bolstering their defensive front with the signing of free agent defensive end DJ Wonnum on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million. This move, reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Media, adds depth and experience to the Lions' pass rush.
Wonnum, now 28, made a visit to the Lions on Tuesday, and his addition gives Detroit a trio of true edge rushers. He joins forces with Aidan Hutchinson, a rising star, and Ahmed Hassanein, who is eager to make an impact after missing his rookie season due to a preseason pectoral injury.
Before joining the Lions, Wonnum spent the last two seasons with the Carolina Panthers, where he signed a two-year, $12.5 million contract as a free agent. During his stint in Carolina, he contributed 79 tackles, seven sacks, an interception, four passes defensed, and a forced fumble. A quad injury in 2024 sidelined him for a portion of the season, but his overall performance remained solid.
Originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, Wonnum has accumulated 30 career sacks over six seasons. Notably, he recorded eight sacks for the Vikings in both 2021 and 2023, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses consistently.
With this signing, the Lions are clearly focused on enhancing their defensive capabilities, and Wonnum's proven track record suggests he could be a key piece in their defensive puzzle. Keep an eye on how this new-look defensive line shapes up as the season progresses.