It’s now official, Jadeveon Clowney has been released by the Carolina Panthers. The three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher has been nothing but a one-and-done player for the franchise. This decision is the latest, as part of the greater strategy to completely change the roster, leading into the next season. Clowney, a former Minnesota Vikings standout, is coming off an impressive 2024 season. Despite making just one start all season, Aagau was able to register a career-high seven sacks.
Clowney’s release is notable, as the Panthers are likely focused on giving playing time to recent additions. This is a team that recently signed DE Pat Jones II to a two-year, $20 million deal. They selected Nic Scourton from Texas A&M in the second round and Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss in the third. The patient and nimble organization is excited to cultivate these skills. They hope to get DJ Johnson, who’s had a rough time getting on the field, totaling only 0.5 sacks in five starts since being selected in the draft’s third round, back up to speed.
The Panthers clearly came to the conclusion that Clowney wasn’t working out. This change provides increased opportunities for younger, up and coming talent to showcase their skills. The coaching staff is aggressively working to get Scourton and Umanmielen into the defensive rotation. It’s a bold step that signals their instincts to put down a building block of their future.
They’ve added Brooks, their 2024 second-round pick, to the physically unable to perform list. This trade adds a layer of confusion to the team’s depth chart. It also opens up opportunities for other players to step up in his absence.
Clowney’s stay in Carolina didn’t last long. It did arrive on the heels of a Hall of Fame career that included some epic seasons with other franchises. During his time with the Vikings he put up some gaudy stats. He established himself as a linchpin player on defense. The Panthers’ management appears committed to a new direction, prioritizing younger prospects who can contribute to the team’s long-term success.
The release of Clowney follows the cuts of Dan Arnold and other big roster moves declared by the Panthers this week as they prepared for their rookie minicamp. The team looks forward to this new season ahead. As part of this effort they are looking to re-align their roster to increase competitiveness now and in the future.
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