The Carolina Panthers have bolstered their outside linebacker position through multiple acquisitions, but given the departures the team has faced, additional reinforcements are still needed ahead of Week 1. One such pursuit remains ongoing, despite notable interest from another franchise.
General Manager Dan Morgan revealed on Monday, as reported by The Athletic’s Joe Person, that the Panthers are actively staying in contact with Jadeveon Clowney’s representatives. Although Carolina hosted Clowney for a visit early in free agency, recent reports have linked the veteran edge rusher more closely with the New York Jets.
Recent reports suggest that the Jets are highly motivated to secure Clowney’s services, with ongoing communication between the two parties since their initial meeting. Notably, the Panthers were the first team to meet with Clowney, coinciding with visits from Chase Young and D.J. Wonnum. While Young ultimately signed with the Saints due to a lingering neck issue, and Wonnum committed to Carolina, neither player alone provides the caliber of starting edge presence the Panthers seek, prompting their continued interest in Clowney.
The Panthers previously traded Brian Burns to the Giants, a move that concluded a saga which began with significant trade interest, notably from the Rams in 2022. Former starter Yetur Gross-Matos also departed, signing with the 49ers after failing to fully justify his second-round draft status.
Jadeveon Clowney, 31, has a history of deliberate decision-making in free agency, opting for shorter-term deals rather than securing a long-term contract. His 2023 season with the Ravens was particularly productive, matching his career-high 9.5 sacks. Given Carolina’s modest team sack total of 27, Clowney represents an appealing short-term solution for the Panthers, potentially providing a significant boost to their pass rush under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero for the upcoming season.
