The pros, cons and cost for the Lions to sign D.J. Wonnum

Edge rusher day continues for us here AtoZ Detroit. We already covered Josh Allen, Danielle Hunter, Brian Burns and Bryce Huff. This time we wrap up the edge rushers by talking about Vikings edge rusher D.J. Wonnum. 

Pros

Wonnum has been quietly pretty good for the Vikings since they took him in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He became a starts for the Vikings in 2024 and in 14 starts he put up eight sacks, 38 pressures and six quarterback hits opposite Danielle Hunter. That's not too bad. 

Cons

I'm not sure if Wonnum is a big fix himself or part of a big fix. He had a career season last year and he showed that he can continue to be a starter wherever he goes, but is what he showed enough for the Lions to give him starter money and feel comfortable that they don't also have to make some other big moves? That is something only time could answer. 

What would he cost?

By far the sweetest deal for the Lions. Our on staff cap specialists project that Wonnum would get a two year deal worth $13 million with a annual per year salary of $6.5 million and $5 million guaranteed. 

Could it happen?

Absolutely. The Lions already have three years worth of tape on this guy and he has given the Lions some trouble in the past. The cost is hard to walk away from too. That is just significantly cheaper than everyone else we listed. That allows the Lions to continue to build their line without having money anchors on both sides. Keep an eye on Wonnum in March.