The chaos of free agency has started! Former Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton is reportedly signing a three-year contract with the Carolina Panthers expected to be valued at over $54 million, according to various sources that informed Fox Sports.
Journalist Jordan Schultz concurs that this recognition is deserved for the emerging talent, as he guided the Chiefs during the last season.
Wharton established his reputation last season, achieving his best statistical performance so far, recording personal bests in tackles and sacks. His most crucial moment of the previous season occurred in the largest game of all: Super Bowl LIX versus the Philadelphia Eagles. By the conclusion of the game, he had achieved 5 total tackles and was no longer confined to a minor role. He was on the chart.
Athletes like Wharton and Sam Darnold demonstrated that the only year that counts is the latest one. Regardless of how Wharton acquired the heightened self-assurance and motivation to perform as he did, both fans and executives recognized his capabilities when he plays at his highest level.
Recognized as one of the premier free agents this offseason, it was evident that the Chiefs would need to battle to retain him in Kansas City. Regrettably, it appears that the Panthers got ahead of them, and Wharton will now transition to the NFC for the next season.
Although the Chiefs have recently re-signed their standout linebacker Nick Bolton, losing a player like Wharton is certainly a setback. This leaves longtime All-Pro Chris Jones isolated, as the Chiefs currently lack any other DT contracted for the 2025 season.
Although the Chiefs have recently re-signed their star linebacker Nick Bolton, the loss of a player like Wharton is a significant setback. This leaves longtime All-Pro Chris Jones by himself, as the Chiefs still lack any other DT signed for the 2025 season.
Nobody is more deserving of this than Wharton. From being an undrafted free agent to becoming a two-time Super Bowl champion, Wharton showed the whole NFL was mistaken. At just 26 years old, Wharton has his entire career in front of him and is certain to provide assistance to a rising Panthers team.
Regarding the Chiefs, their only task is to concentrate on enhancing their lineup for the upcoming season. The Chiefs have already acquired two free agents: offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and running back Elijah Mitchell.