Panthers receiver DJ Chark receives high praise, award from sports writers group

By Carlos Jenkins

Charlotte, NC --- According to a report filed by Panthers' beat writer for The Athletic, Joe Person, Carolina Panthers wide receiver DJ Chark Jr. is the 2023 winner of the Tom Berry Good Guy Award, which annually honors the Panthers player who was most helpful to the media.

Chark, a media favorite in the locker room due to his approachability and informational responses, joins Teddy Bridgewater as the only players to win the award in their first season with the Panthers.

The Good Guy award is presented by the Carolinas chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America and named for a longtime columnist and Panthers beat writer for the High Point (N.C.) Enterprise who died at the start of the 2009 season.

Chark was moved by the show of appreciation. “I try to be personable with everyone I meet and try to be genuine with my answers when I speak to people. So it feels great to know that that didn’t go overlooked,” Chark said.

In 14 games, Chark leads the Panthers with five receiving touchdowns. He’s caught 33 passes for 479 yards after signing a one-year deal during free agency. Chark has averaged 14.5 yards per catch, which ranks first among Panthers players with more than one reception.

During a difficult season that included the in-season firing of head coach Frank Reich, PFWA members said they appreciated Chark was accessible regardless of outcome or performance. He also was available beyond what was required of him, taking time to speak with reporters 1-on-1 at his locker after practices and games.  

Tom Berry Good Guy Award Winners

2023 – DJ Chark Jr.

2022 -- PJ Walker

2021 -- Brian Burns

2020 -- Teddy Bridgewater

2019 -- Greg Olsen

2018 -- Ryan Kalil

2017 -- Ed Dickson

2016 -- Kurt Coleman

2015 -- Josh Norman

2014 -- Mike Tolbert

2013 -- Greg Olsen

2012 -- James Anderson

2011 -- Captain Munnerlyn

2010 -- Jordan Gross

2009 -- Brad Hoover