Super Bowl champion Tershawn Wharton is opening up about a devastating personal tragedy — and using his voice to send a powerful message about mental health.
The Carolina Panthers defensive tackle revealed over the weekend that his brother died by suicide, sharing the emotional news with fans in a deeply personal post.
“On behalf of my family… my brother passed away by suicide,” Wharton wrote. “This is one of the toughest pills we’ve ever had to swallow.”
The NFL standout, who previously won two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs, didn’t hold back about the pain his family is facing.
“We’re not okay,” he admitted. “And this journey is just beginning.”
But in the middle of unimaginable grief, Wharton turned his focus outward — urging people to check in on those around them, especially the ones who seem the strongest.
“Check on your people. Check on your ‘strong’ friends,” he wrote. “The ones who always show up… the ones who give the most and ask for nothing.”
He described his brother, known as “DB,” as someone with “a smile so big and an even bigger heart,” adding that the outpouring of support has meant everything during this painful time.
The message quickly rippled across the NFL world, with fans and players sending prayers and condolences as Wharton and his family begin to process the loss.
Wharton’s story is also a stark reminder of the silent battles many people face — even those who appear to have it all together.
“Mental health is real,” he wrote. “Please understand it’s okay to talk to someone.”
Wharton, who went undrafted out of Missouri S&T before carving out a successful NFL career, has become known for his resilience on the field. But off the field, he’s now confronting a far more personal fight — one that’s resonating far beyond football.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for confidential support 24/7.
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