Since the Carolina Panthers don’t look like a postseason contender this season again, former Minnesota Viking DJ Wonnum could be a potential trade candidate. According to Bleacher Report, they still have Wonnum as a trade candidate, to no one’s surprise, as he’s one of the better veterans on this defense since the Panthers have a younger team. With the future development of rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, it might be best to trade Wonnum either way, as the Panthers could see what both of the rookies can do with starting roles. As for Wonnum, the trade market might skyrocket in the next few weeks, especially since he’s in his contract year and there are tons of playoff teams always looking for ways to upgrade their defense.
Originally selected in the 2020 NFL Draft, the former South Carolina product’s tenure didn’t get off to a good start with the Panthers after spending some time last year on the PUP list. However, he does have a lot of upside that a team can use in rotation. While Wonnum won’t garner the best draft capital, it should be enough for the Panthers to take a potential offer from a team in exchange for him. It’ll be interesting to see where the Panthers’ season will turn out, but it shouldn’t be surprising if these teams take a chance on Wonnum.
Report: Former Vikings Fourth Rounder DJ Wonnum Named Trade Candidate
Potential Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers may have gotten help on defense after losing Khalil Mack to an injury, but they should still be in the market for a veteran linebacker. Calm down, keyboard warriors, the Chargers have one of the most talented and deepest linebacker units, but it’s slowly crashing down since they lost Denzel Perryman, too. The Los Angeles Chargers signed Clelin Ferrell, who is a defensive end rather than a linebacker, but it’s a much-needed upgrade to help Da’Shawn Hand get after the quarterback.
The Chargers had a solid defense last year, and the trend should continue into this season. Wonnum won’t drastically change much about this defense, but he’s easily a viable linebacker who can help Daiyan Henley, Tuli Tuipulotu, Bud Dupree and Troy Dye.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Chiefs might look into a few trades at some point during the 2025 regular season. The wide receiver unit is not only the weakest room in this roster, but they some depth help at the linebacker position. Despite signing Nick Bolton to an extension, they weren’t able to retain Joshua Uche, who was traded to Kansas City last year. The trade was proof that the Chiefs need immediate linebacker help.
Wonnum wouldn’t reduce the snaps for Drue Tranquill or Leo Chenal, but it could bolster the defense to get after the quarterback.
Dallas Cowboys
However, the Dallas Cowboys could use some linebacker help as well. Jack Sanborn hasn’t been living up to expectations despite having Matt Eberflus as his defensive coordinator. As long as they stop playing zone coverage, they should trade for Wonnum. Eberflus must get aggressive, and if they do that, this should put Wonnum in the best spot alongside Kenneth Murray Jr. to make some key sacks.
