Carolina Panthers’ Defense Set for Key Reinforcement vs. Patriots in Week 4
Coming off a dominant shutout victory, the Carolina Panthers’ defense could receive a significant boost for their Week 4 matchup against the New England Patriots.
It’s been a rollercoaster start to the season for Dave Canales’s team. After allowing 200 rushing yards and being dominated by the Jacksonville Jaguars in a 26-10 loss in Week 1, the Panthers turned things around dramatically, recording their first shutout win since 2020 by defeating the Atlanta Falcons 30-0 last Sunday.
This offseason, general manager Dan Morgan made moves to strengthen a struggling defensive line, signing defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton away from the Kansas City Chiefs. Wharton, a two-time Super Bowl champion, agreed to a three-year, $45.05 million contract with the Panthers (according to Spotrac).
Unfortunately, Wharton’s debut with the Panthers was short-lived as he sustained a hamstring injury after just 20 snaps. During his brief time on the field, he registered four tackles. After missing the last two games against the Cardinals and Falcons, Wharton may be available to play this Sunday against the Patriots at Foxborough.
Wharton’s Return Would Strengthen Panthers’ Defensive Line
Although Wharton has been listed as “limited” in practice, his return would provide a much-needed boost to the Panthers’ defense, particularly to their pass rush, which has struggled with just one sack in three games. The only sack so far this season came from rookie Princely Umanmielen, who continues to learn from Wharton, a veteran who notched a career-high 6.5 sacks in his final season with the Chiefs in 2024.
Umanmielen spoke about the mentorship he’s receiving from Wharton: “When we’re rushing in the game, things I do affect him, and things he does affect me. So that’s what he was really telling me, like giving me insight about ways that we can help each other.”
“He’s one of the best,” Umanmielen added. “He’s been like taking me under his wing, trying to show me the ropes and help me become a better professional. It’s just pretty cool to have a guy like that who really cares about your development.”
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