CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers are officially parting ways with veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney after just one season, the team announced on Thursday, May 8, 2025. This decision comes as part of a series of roster moves made by the Panthers ahead of their rookie minicamp set to begin on Friday.
Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, had signed a two-year deal worth $20 million with Carolina last offseason. However, his performance did not meet expectations, as he recorded only 5.5 sacks during his tenure with the Panthers, following a more productive 9.5 sacks the previous year with the Baltimore Ravens.
In his 14 games with Carolina, Clowney also tallied 46 tackles, nine tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, and four passes defended. By releasing him, the Panthers will save approximately $7.8 million against the salary cap for the upcoming season.
General manager Dan Morgan had hinted at the possibility of Clowney's departure during the NFL Draft, where he was noncommittal about the player's future with the team. The Panthers had already drafted two edge rushers, Nic Scourton from Texas A&M in the second round and Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss in the third round, signaling a shift towards younger talent.
“The writing was on the wall,” one analyst noted, referencing the Panthers’ decision to select two pass rushers so early in the draft. “Carolina needed to add a pass rusher, but taking two that high raised some eyebrows, considering they had several other needs to address on defense.”
Clowney’s release is not just about performance; it’s also a strategic move to open opportunities for the rookies. The Panthers are clearly looking to see what they have in their young players, and the decision to let Clowney go reflects a desire to build for the future.
In addition to Clowney, the Panthers also placed running back Jonathon Brooks, a second-round pick in 2024, on the physically unable to perform list. Brooks is recovering from a second ACL injury to his right knee in just 13 months, and he will miss the entire 2025 season. This unfortunate setback adds to the team’s challenges as they prepare for the new season.
The Panthers also made headlines by waiving injured former Coastal Carolina basketball player Colin Granger, who was attempting to transition to tight end but suffered a hamstring injury during offseason workouts. Veteran tight end Jordan Matthews was also released as part of the roster shakeup.
As the Panthers look to the future, the focus will be on how they allocate the cap space saved from Clowney's release. Morgan is expected to pursue additional talent, particularly in the secondary, to bolster the defense alongside standout cornerback Jaycee Horn. There are also needs at inside linebacker and safety that the team may look to address before the season begins.
With the offseason in full swing, the Panthers are clearly in a transition phase as they aim to reshape their roster. The decision to move on from Clowney, a player with significant pedigree, highlights the team’s commitment to developing younger talent and addressing pressing needs across the board.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Panthers navigate this pivotal moment in their franchise history. Will the young edge rushers be able to step up and fill the gap left by Clowney? Can the team find the right veterans to complement their emerging stars? Only time will tell as the Panthers prepare for what promises to be an intriguing season ahead.
