Super Bowl champion says his brother committed suicide: ‘Mental health is real’

This story is about suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Super Bowl champion defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton announced a family tragedy on Sunday.

Wharton, who currently plays for the Carolina Panthers, said on his Instagram Stories that his brother committed suicide.

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Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (92) speaks to the media after practice at training camp on July 24, 2025. (Scott Kinser/Image Images)

“Good morning. On behalf of my family and my brother, I want to take a moment to give everyone some closure,” he wrote. “My brother passed away by suicide. This is one of the hardest pills we have ever had to swallow. At this time, we are making arrangements and I will share that information with his loved ones.

“I also want to say this: Check on your people. Check on your ‘strong’ friends, the ones who always show up, the ones who give more and ask for nothing. Everyone who knew DB knows he had such a big smile and an even bigger heart. My family and I really appreciate everyone who has reached out. But I’m going to be honest, we’re not okay. And this journey is just beginning. Mental health is real. Please understand that it’s okay to talk to someone.”

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Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (98) warms up before a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on Dec. 17, 2023. (Eric Canha/USA TODAY Sports)

The NFL world offered prayers for Wharton as he and his family went through an incredibly difficult time.

Wharton was a standout at Missouri S&T before signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020 as an undrafted free agent. He played five seasons with the Chiefs, making 13 starts in the 72 games he played for the team.

He was part of two Super Bowl-winning Chiefs teams.

Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (99) reacts in the third quarter of an NFC Wild Card round game at Bank of America Stadium on Jan. 10, 2026. (Bob Donnan/Image Images)

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Wharton joined the Panthers before the start of the 2025 season. He played in nine games and had 36 tackles and two sacks.

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