Panthers Release Jadeveon Clowney, Open Roster Spot for Young Talent

Charlotte, North Carolina — The Carolina Panthers officially released veteran pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney on Thursday, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The decision comes after uncertainty surrounding Clowney’s future with the team, especially after general manager Dan Morgan expressed hesitance during the NFL draft.

Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowl outside linebacker, was entering the final year of a two-year, $20 million contract signed last offseason. Last season, he tallied 5.5 sacks, 46 tackles, 11 quarterback hits, and four passes defended in 14 games for the Panthers.

Sources informed ESPN that Carolina had engaged in discussions about trading Clowney before the 2025 NFL draft. The Panthers recently selected pass rushers Nic Scouton from Texas A&M and Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss in the second and third rounds of the draft, indicating a shift in their defensive strategy.

With Clowney’s departure, the Panthers save approximately $7.8 million in cap space. This financial flexibility may allow them to bolster other areas of the defense, particularly the secondary, where they could seek to support cornerback Jaycee Horn. Morgan may also consider adding a veteran linebacker or safety to round out the defense.

The decision to part ways with Clowney puts additional pressure on the drafted rookies to perform quickly, as the team transitions to a younger lineup. As Morgan looks to revamp the team, more changes on the roster may be forthcoming.