Bengals Pursue Panthers’ D.J. Wonnum to Enhance Defensive Lineup Before Trade Deadline
The Cincinnati Bengals showcased a commendable defensive performance in their recent clash against the Cleveland Browns, limiting their rivals to just 16 points and generating several crucial turnovers. However, despite this promising outing, the Bengals’ defense still appears to lack the star power necessary to compete at the highest level. To address this need, Kristopher Knox suggests that Cincinnati should consider acquiring edge rusher D.J. Wonnum from the Carolina Panthers.
Panthers’ Struggles Open Trade Possibilities
The Carolina Panthers, coming off a disheartening start to their season, displayed signs reminiscent of their less competitive form from early 2024. As the season progresses, it’s evident that Carolina is evaluating its younger talent, which opens the door for potential trades. Knox emphasizes that the Panthers may be inclined to part ways with Wonnum before he enters free agency in 2026, making this an opportune moment for the Bengals to strike a deal.
Last season, the 27-year-old Wonnum recorded an impressive 37 tackles and four sacks over the course of eight games. With such statistics backing him, he could provide significant value for Cincinnati. Knox points out that a trade similar to the fifth-round pick and late-round swap that the Browns secured for Za’Darius Smith at last year’s deadline could serve as a solid reference for negotiations.
Strengthening the Edge Rotation
In their season opener, the Bengals received a notable performance from Shemar Stewart, who notched three pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. Integrating Wonnum into a three-man edge rotation could alleviate some of the pressure on the secondary, a strategy that has proven effective for teams like the Green Bay Packers in the early weeks of the season.
If the Bengals are serious about enhancing their defensive capabilities, acting quickly is paramount. As the Panthers continue to face challenges, the likelihood of them entering a selling mode at the trade deadline increases, making an acquisition of Wonnum more complicated as time passes.
Looking Ahead to the Trade Deadline
With the trade deadline looming, the Bengals find themselves at a crossroads. Strengthening their defense could be crucial for their playoff aspirations, and Wonnum presents a viable option to bolster their lineup. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Cincinnati’s decision-making process in the coming weeks, as they navigate the complexities of roster improvements and potential trades.
