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The New York Giants have an instant answer to a new problem that popped up for the franchise

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated May 9, 2025 10:22 AM ET

ESPN's Jordan Raanan reported on Thursday that New York Giants edge rusher Victor Dimukeje tore a pectoral muscle last month during offseason workouts.

According to ESPN, the typical recovery time for a torn pectoral muscle is four to six months, which means it's possible that Dimukeje could miss a significant chunk of the 2025 season (it's too early for an exact timetable on his return).

Dimukeje signed a one-year deal with the Giants this offseason after delivering a 18 percent quarterback pressure rate for the Arizona Cardinals last season (Dimukeje also had four sacks for the Cardinals in 2023). The former Duke Blue Devils standout wasn't expected to be a featured defensive player for the Giants in 2025, but he offered plenty of upside as a rotational pass rusher (which would help the Giants to keep everyone fresh).

With Dimukeje set to be out of action for four to six months, the Giants would be wise to give veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney a call.

Clowney, the No. 1 overall selection in the 2014 NFL Draft, was released by the Carolina Panthers on Thursday.

The 32-year-old edge rusher totaled 5.5 sacks for the Panthers in 2024 and 9.5 sacks for the Baltimore Ravens in 2023.

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Clowney is extremely motivated to play well in 2025 after getting released by the Panthers.

“I’m definitely gonna play well,” said Clowney to The Athletic after getting released. “You can mark my word on that. I don’t care where I end up playing at, I’m gonna play extremely well.”

“I think I played well for Carolina [last] year, considering the circumstances that . . . unfolded for me,” added Clowney. “I played with a bunch of guys that was hurt this past year. And I ended up playing extremely well for them. So it is what it is. I can play the game. I can play football. There are 31 other teams. I just hope another team gives me that opportunity so I can prove myself again. I feel like I can do that...I got more in the tank than people think. I just keep bringing it, and they’re gonna keep counting me out.”

Signing Clowney as a replacement for Dimukeje could be a massive bargain (Carolina was unable to find a trade partner before dealing Clowney) that bolsters the Giants' pass rushing depth.

Success in the NFL is all about protecting the quarterback and getting after the quarterback. Pursuing a motivated Clowney seems like it should be a no-brainer for the Giants.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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