Wisconsin outside linebacker Darryl Peterson signs with NFL team

Wisconsin outside linebacker Darrell Peterson III landed his NFL shot minutes after the 2026 draft ended, agreeing to an unrestricted free agent contract with the Los Angeles Rams, per Matt Zenitz. Peterson, a Wisconsin veteran, joined a franchise that has made a habit of turning late additions into real defensive line and edge depth.

Peterson left Madison after a five-year career that peaked with his most productive season in 2025. The 6-foot-1, 247-pound defender posted a career-high 6.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss, which underscored his ability to win on the edge and finish plays behind the line of scrimmage. That late surge gave him a tangible selling point as teams filled out 90-man rosters and looked for pass-rush traits that can translate to special teams and sub-packages.

For Wisconsin, Peterson’s signing added another example of the program’s defensive pipeline creating pro opportunities, even when a player does not hear his name called over seven rounds. His path also fit a familiar Badgers arc: develop over time, carve out a role in the front seven, then turn a final-season jump into a chance at the next level.

Peterson now heads into the Rams’ offseason program fighting for a roster spot and a role in a crowded edge group. Wisconsin fans will watch to see whether his 2025 disruption carries over into camp and gives him a real runway into the regular season.

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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football Darryl Peterson sign NFL contract Rams