Tershawn Wharton was a wanted man, that much was clear after the Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman enjoyed an unexpected breakout season in 2024. On Monday, he was richly rewarded for his efforts with a massive new deal in free agency.
Per NFL reporter Jordan Schultz, the Carolina Panthers are paying Wharton for the production and experience that comes with multiple Super Bowl rings. The terms of the deal were announced as a three-year contract worth up to $54 million in free agency.
Wharton was a good bet for a sizable pay increase this offseason after putting in a career year for the Chiefs next to Chris Jones. Wharton set new personal marks with 6.5 sacks and 23 pressures in '24.
Wharton's absence will be felt by the Chiefs after a breakout season in 2024.
Wharton deserved a much bigger salary than what he was earning last season. The Chiefs re-signed him to a one-year deal for a scant $2.75 million to return as a rotational player up front. Instead, Wharton proved he was a late bloomer at the pro level with a season to remember.
The Panthers are betting that Wharton's later development will yield meaningful dividends for the team in 2025 and beyond. Wharton was a small-school find for the Chiefs as an undrafted player out of Missouri S&T. From there, he suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 5 of his third NFL season, which meant the second half of his rookie contract was spent returning to form following the injury.
For the Chiefs, the loss of Wharton hurts up front and the team already had a significant need for greater talent and depth inside. The Chiefs also face the potential loss of Charles Omenihu in free agency along with Mike Pennel and Derrick Nnadi.