Detroit Lions Sign Free Agent OLB D.J. Wonnum

Veteran pass rusher inks one-year deal to bolster Detroit's defensive line

Mar. 18, 2026 at 12:19am

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The Detroit Lions have signed free agent outside linebacker D.J. Wonnum to a one-year contract worth up to $6 million. Wonnum, a 28-year-old veteran, spent the past two seasons with the Carolina Panthers and brings added pass-rushing depth to Detroit's defense.

Why it matters

The Lions were in need of reinforcements at defensive end after Al-Quadin Muhammad departed in free agency. Wonnum's addition provides another rotational piece to play opposite star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson and bolster Detroit's pass rush.

The details

Wonnum, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher, started 15 games for the Panthers in 2025, recording 3 sacks, 42 tackles, 4 tackles for loss and 1 interception. He missed half the 2024 season due to a blood clot issue but returned to play 16 of 17 games in 2025. In Detroit, Wonnum will look to build on his past success and take advantage of the attention drawn by Hutchinson to generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

  • Wonnum signed his one-year contract with the Lions on March 18, 2026.

The players

D.J. Wonnum

A 28-year-old veteran outside linebacker who spent the past two seasons with the Carolina Panthers, recording 7 sacks over that span.

Aidan Hutchinson

The Lions' star edge rusher, who will now have Wonnum playing opposite him to provide additional pass-rushing depth.

Al-Quadin Muhammad

The defensive end who departed the Lions in free agency, leading the team to seek reinforcements at the position.

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What’s next

The Lions are expected to add another defensive end in the upcoming NFL draft to further bolster their pass-rushing unit.

The takeaway

The addition of Wonnum provides the Lions with a veteran pass-rushing presence to complement Aidan Hutchinson, helping to address a key need on the defensive line and improve the team's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.