PALM BEACH, Fla. — When the Kansas City Chiefs signed an undersized lineman from Division II Missouri S&T in 2020, head coach Andy Reid had no lofty expectations. But it didn’t take long for them to realize Tershawn Wharton was much more than his modest résumé suggested.
Now, Wharton is among the Carolina Panthers’ first free-agent acquisitions, part of their effort to rebuild the defense and generate pressure from multiple positions. Last season, he racked up 8.5 sacks, including the playoffs, proving his ability to make an impact.
A Relentless Work Ethic
Reid, speaking at the NFL’s annual meeting at The Breakers resort, reflected on Wharton’s journey.
“He came from a small school, but he’s a worker—that says it all,” Reid said. “You look at his progress in college, the way he gained strength and weight, and then he brought that same drive to the NFL.”
Given his background, Wharton’s path to the league was anything but conventional. At 280 pounds, he remains an undersized defensive tackle, but his transformation is remarkable—especially considering he started out as a running back before transitioning to the defensive line.
“Because of his work ethic and athletic ability, he outgrew the running back role and became a nose guard or defensive tackle,” Reid said. “But he’s still incredibly active—a quiet, tough, great kid.”
Earning His Spot
Brandt Tilis, the Panthers’ executive VP of football operations and a former Chiefs executive, recalled how Kansas City initially planned to place Wharton on the practice squad during the COVID-shortened 2020 preseason. However, his on-field performance made that impossible.
“He was so clearly one of our best players that we couldn’t justify stashing him,” Tilis said. “If we left him off the 53-man roster, we would’ve lost credibility with the team. He earned his spot.”
Wharton’s journey from a little-known prospect to a key defensive piece is a testament to his determination, adaptability, and raw talent. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter with the Panthers, he’s ready to prove his worth once again—just as he always has.
