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Lions Sign Edge Rusher D.J. Wonnum for $6 Million

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

D. J. Wonnum signed a one-year contract with the Detroit Lions worth up to $6 million.
Wonnum, 28, played for the Carolina Panthers last season, starting 15 games and recording 42 tackles and three sacks.
He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020 and has 30 career sacks over six seasons.
The signing fills a critical edge-rushing need and adds depth alongside Aidan Hutchinson.

History

Historical Context

In March 2020, the NFL and NFLPA agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) amid the COVID-19 pandemic, introducing significant changes like expanding playoffs and increasing player revenue share. The 2020 season, marked by the cancellation of preseason games, saw teams adapt strategies, exemplified by the Carolina Panthers signing D. J. Wonnum, who later joined the Detroit Lions for up to $6 million.

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Story summary

D. J. Wonnum signed a one-year contract with the Detroit Lions worth up to $6 million.
Wonnum, 28, played for the Carolina Panthers last season, starting 15 games and recording 42 tackles and three sacks.
He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020 and has 30 career sacks over six seasons.
The signing fills a critical edge-rushing need and adds depth alongside Aidan Hutchinson.

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