Tershawn Wharton became an underrated X-factor for the Chiefs' defense during his time in Kansas City. An undrafted free agent signing in 2020 from nearby Missouri S&T, Wharton grew to be an impactful piece against both the run and the pass. He can also move around the line of scrimmage and play in different spots on the defensive line.
His role as a solid rotational piece in his first two years helped usher in a new mentality of the Chiefs' defense. A torn ACL in 2022 limited him to five games. That was the only time in which Wharton missed significant playing time. Afterward, the defender returned to full health, received more defensive starts, and saw his production grow in the last two seasons.
Last offseason, the Chiefs were able to bring back Wharton for cheap on a one-year deal. But after a statistical breakout in 2024, the defensive lineman is set for a reported pay raise on the open market.
Kansas City Chiefs free agent profile: Tershawn Wharton, defensive lineman
Chiefs' 2024 expectations for Tershawn Wharton
The initial expectation for Wharton in 2024 was to see him provide secondary production for the K.C. defensive line. In addition, being able to impact both the run and the pass game was still a key part of re-signing him. The Chiefs also knew that Wharton was one of their few defensive linemen who could flex around to different spots and alignments on the defensive line.
How did 2024 season turn out for Tershawn Wharton?
The expectation of secondary production was shattered by Wharton's standards. Overall, he set career highs for a single season in sacks (6.5), solo tackles (18), and quarterback hits (11). Wharton also appeared in every game and received an increase in starts. His 10 starts were the most he had managed in a season so far. Simply put, Wharton broke out a bit statistically at the perfect time. He heads to the open market with a season that includes him being the difference in certain drives coming to a close.
Will Tershawn Wharton re-sign with Chiefs in 2025?
The reports of him getting fruitful offers on the open market are tremendous news for any player, let alone a former UDFA. Out of all the pending free agents Kansas City has on the defensive line, Wharton is arguably the piece they would want back the most. He is still in a prime age and has been a player that they can rely upon in critical situations.
Yet, the market could still be too competitive for Kansas City to match. Many teams are looking to plug holes on the defensive line. Defensive tackle is becoming even higher among the list of premium positions due to the style of today's NFL game. If the Chiefs believe they cannot match outside offers for Wharton, K.C. could look to utilize assets and resources elsewhere this offseason.
Free agent prediction for Tershawn Wharton
Let's say Wharton signs elsewhere with a pay raise from an outside team. There are a few different defensive systems that make sense for a player with his traits. One that stands out is the San Francisco 49ers. Robert Saleh returns for a fresh stint as the 49ers defensive coordinator after his run as New York Jets head coach. Saleh has used heavy rotations along his defensive lines. The size, density, and length that Wharton provides may make for a seamless transition for Saleh and San Francisco.
The 49ers have Javon Hargrave and Kevin Givens set for free agency on the defensive interior. Beefing up the defensive tackle spot could be vital for San Francisco to return to the status of true Super Bowl contender.
Prediction: Wharton signs with the San Francisco 49ers for three years and $27 million