Panthers Release Jadeveon Clowney, Clear $7.775 Million Cap Space

The Carolina Panthers are actively reshaping their pass rush for the 2025 season after a poor 2024 performance, which saw them finish near the bottom in pressures and sacks. They added depth at the EDGE position by signing Patrick Jones II and drafting Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, signaling a potential move away from veteran Jadeveon Clowney, who was subsequently released after failing to find a trade partner. Meanwhile, rumors suggest the Panthers could pursue New York Giants' Kayvon Thibodeaux to bolster their pass rush, potentially pairing him with their young rookies to form a dynamic rotation, even though this would create a surplus of edge rushers likely necessitating further trades or cuts. On defense overall, the Panthers have also strengthened their run defense by re-signing Derrick Brown, signing free agents like Tershawn Wharton, and drafting multiple defenders to improve their interior defense. Despite speculation about adding more defensive linemen via trade, analysts believe the current defensive core is promising, and additional moves might be unnecessary. The Panthers’ front office appears focused on rebuilding a stronger defensive unit through youth and strategic signings while managing salary cap considerations tied to veteran players.