Carolina Panthers provide surprising update on DT Tershawn Wharton
The NFL offseason has entered the heart of organized team activities, with OTAs now underway. Teams will soon begin minicamps as they move closer to the preseason. The Carolina Panthers still have several issues to address before minicamp and training camp begin, and the team received an unexpected update on Friday.
Reports indicate that 2025 free-agent addition Tershawn Wharton underwent neck surgery earlier this month. He is expected to begin the regular season on the PUP list. MORE: Atlanta Falcons’ rookie Avieon Terrell sets new standard with record contract Wharton missed eight games during the 2025 season because of injury and has now taken another step to address the issue.
The encouraging news is that he is reportedly expected to return in 2026. Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) is sacked by Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (99) during their football game Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Proceeding with care Neck injuries have become especially delicate situations for NFL teams in recent years.
Players such as Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah continue working toward a return from similar injuries. Unfortunately, injuries like these remain highly unpredictable. Teams must approach them cautiously rather than risk a player’s long-term health and career.
Wharton joined the Panthers in free agency last offseason, signing a three-year, $54 million contract. Although injuries limited him last year, he still flashed potential in limited action. He even appeared in Carolina’s Wild Card game.