Quick Read: Lions Sign Free Agent DE/Edge: DJ Wonnum
Information sourced from: Pro Football Reference, Tom Pelissero of the NFL, PFF
The Lions have signed free agent edge DJ Wonnum to a one year contract worth up to 6 million dollars. Guaranteed money is not yet apparent. DJ Wonnum is a good depth edge coming off of a season where he had 29 credited pressures and 3 sacks on 15 starts and 688 snaps played. Additional stats per pro football reference:
What does this mean for the Lions? He is your slotted in (tentative) starter, however I expect that not to stick. While I have no inside information I would assume that he is your rotational edge that will play behind another free agent and/or draft pick. He will be expected to come in and set the edge for the run, and hopefully have more pass run juice with less snaps leaving him more fresh. I would absolutely love to still see them sign Cam Jordan and draft an edge to give a solid competition in camp. However, that may be too much to ask. Only time will tell what the Lions will do, but it is good to see a previous starting Edge signed to the roster.
Another middle-of-the-road project who hasn't quite filled expectations. But he's a body and as long as the D is taking hit after hit every year, he will serve a purpose. I almost see the Lions heading toward a first round #10-14 pick in 2027.
Everything hinges on the guaranteed money, but this is very Holmes like to get someone who can start so come draft day he can take who he likes instead of having to plug holes