DJ Chark's contract analysis: Why did Panthers give former Lions WR one-year deal?

In DJ Chark, another seasoned athlete has been welcomed to the wide receiver group for the Carolina Panthers. According to NFL Network Insider Rapoport on Friday, the team inked DJ Chark to a one-year deal with $5 million in guarantees before announcing the signing.

The Detroit Lions signed DJ Chark to a one-year contract in 2022 after his 2021 season was cut short after four games due to an ankle fracture. Chark thought that a one-year deal would serve as a springboard for a long-term deal the year after.

However, his season with the Lions was once again plagued by injuries, as he played in just 11 games. His performances were strong, producing 30 receptions for 502 yards and three scores in a strong Lions attack.

While Chark isn't the team's top receiver, he's a capable starter and might improve in Frank Reich's scheme. A one-year contract gives both parties options, and Chark can increase his value again after appearing in just 15 games over the last two seasons.

On Friday, Chark posted a message on Twitter in response to news of his imminent deal with the Panthers.

"This opportunity in Carolina is unmatched! I'm excited to see what this journey has in store for me."

---

DJ Chark will hope to be an important part of Panthers’ rebuild in 2023

The offseason for the Carolina Panthers has been revolutionary, especially on offense. For the Panthers to rapidly develop offensively and compete in a very competitive NFC South next season, Chark is expected to assist and guide the wide receiving group.

DJ Moore, formerly of the Carolina Panthers, was part of a trade that secured the Panthers the top pick in the draft from the Chicago Bears. The Panthers are anticipated to choose a quarterback once more in the first round of the NFL draft in April, despite using a mid-round selection on quarterback Matt Corral last year.

The Panthers add 2019 Pro Bowl wideout Chark to complement another new signing, Adam Thielen, and provide a solid catching base for their upcoming rookie quarterback. Some significant free agents that the Panthers have acquired this year include tight end Hayden Hurst, running back Miles Sanders, and wide receiver Adam Thielen.

In the second round of the 2018 NFL draft, Chark was chosen by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of LSU. In his tenure, he has 177 catches, 2,544 receiving yards, and 18 TDs. In 2019, Chark had his best season, catching 73 throws for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns.