Carolina Panthers Release 3-Time Pro Bowl Edge Rusher

The Carolina Panthers ended last season on a positive note. Quarterback Bryce Young showed promise, and even the defense showed flashes of competency. The lack of talent was evident, but over the offseason, the team has worked to surround their former number one overall pick with talent. One of the biggest offseason storylines for the Panthers on the defensive side of the ball is Jadeveon Clowney. The edge rusher has been in many trade rumors as the team looks to get younger and clear cap space. After weeks of trying to trade him, the team decided to release him on Thursday.

Carolina Panthers Release Jadeveon Clowney

Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported the Carolina Panthers plan to release Jadeveon Clowney after failing to find a trade partner. The former number one overall pick has bounced around the league for the past few years. Carolina signed him to a two-year, $20 million deal last offseason, and he had a decent year for the team. In 14 games, he had 46 tackles, nine tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and four passes defended.

The move is to make room for the youth movement in Carolina. The Panthers are not expected to compete for an NFC playoff spot, so they would rather give the reps to younger players. For Clowney, he can now look to join a Super Bowl contender instead of being in the basement of the NFC South.

Which Teams Will Be Interested?

Plenty of teams can use a veteran edge rusher. Basically, any team can use more depth at pass rusher, but there are some elite NFC teams that could use his services. The most obvious is the Detroit Lions. They have been searching for another elite talent to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson and haven’t filled the role. GM Brad Holmes has been known for making bold moves, and the team is trying to win now. Additionally, Green Bay, Chicago, Washington, and Seattle would all be interesting destinations for Jadeveon Clowney.

Final Thoughts

This is a smart long-term move for the Carolina Panthers and allows Clowney to join a contender. Both sides should be happy about this move, and he immediately becomes one of the top free agents on the market.