Patrick Mahomes has formally said goodbye to one of his longest-serving teammates, as defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton leaves the Kansas City Chiefs following five seasons and two Super Bowl championships.
Wharton, who played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ defense, has inked a lucrative three-year, $54 million deal with the Carolina Panthers – a decision that has garnered accolades and a touch of humor from Mahomes
In response to the news on social media, Mahomes expressed total support for Wharton, saying: “Proud of my dawg!” The Chiefs star, recognized for his solid bond with his teammates, genuinely valued what Wharton contributed to Kansas City both in games and beyond.
Chris Jones, a formidable defensive player and one of Wharton’s nearest teammates, also added an emotional note: “I’m so glad for slime!” “Will really miss my little brother.”
Both Mahomes and Jones have observed Wharton for years, as he developed from an undrafted free agent into an essential player for the Super Bowl-winning squad.
Wharton Departs Kansas City Following Stellar Season
Wharton’s transition to Carolina follows his most successful season to date. Beginning as a starter for the first time in 2023, he achieved a total of 29 tackles – matching his career high – including 18 solo tackles and a personal best of 6.5 sacks. He also recorded a sack during the postseason, contributing when it was crucial.
His adaptability and tireless work ethic made him an essential part of Kansas City’s defensive line, but now, he aims to infuse that same vigor into a Panthers squad eager to revamp its defense.
Wit
The Panthers’ defense reached record lows last season, giving up 3,057 rushing yards and yielding 534 points – both are among the poorest records in NFL history.
After losing out on other defensive prospects such as Super Bowl LIX star Milton Williams, Carolina swiftly moved to sign Wharton, incorporating him into a reworked defensive line that features Bobby Brown III, A’Shawn Robinson, and Pro Bowler Derrick Brown, who is anticipated to come back from injury.
New Beginning in Carolina
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 280 pounds, Wharton adds exceptional versatility to Carolina. Although he possesses the size to operate inside, his capacity to rush from the outside might turn him into a formidable asset, reminiscent of Cameron Jordan’s impact with the Saints.
hs.
h veterans like Jadeveon Clowney and Derrick Brown on the roster, Wharton’s championship pedigree will be vital as the Panthers look to bounce back from a dismal 2024 campaign. For Kansas City, Wharton’s departure marks the end of an era for a player who embodied the Chiefs’ hard-nosed defense.
But for Mahomes, Jones, and the rest of his former teammates, it’s clear that Wharton leaves behind not only a championship legacy but also lasting friendships – and he does so with their full support.
.