CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers are parting ways with three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney after just one season, marking a significant shift for the team as it prepares for the upcoming rookie minicamp. The decision, announced on Thursday, highlights the Panthers’ focus on reshaping their roster ahead of the 2025 season.
In addition to Clowney’s release, the Panthers have placed running back Jonathon Brooks, a second-round pick from 2024, on the physically unable to perform list. Brooks is recovering from his second ACL injury to his right knee in just over a year and is expected to miss the entire 2025 season.
Clowney, 32, was set to count $13.775 million against the salary cap in the second year of his two-year, $20 million contract. While financial considerations played a role in his departure, the team is also eager to make room for new talent, particularly after acquiring free agent Pat Jones II and drafting two SEC players, Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen. Jones II recorded a career-high seven sacks last year with the Minnesota Vikings and is expected to compete for a starting role.
Last season, Clowney had 5.5 sacks with the Panthers, a drop from the 9.5 he recorded the previous year with the Baltimore Ravens. This decline, combined with the emergence of younger players, influenced the team’s decision. Clowney had been a focal point of trade discussions prior to the NFL draft but ultimately remained with the team until this recent announcement.
Also on the roster changes, the Panthers waived Colin Granger, a former basketball player at Coastal Carolina who was attempting a transition to tight end. Granger suffered a hamstring injury during offseason workouts, prompting the team to release him. Additionally, veteran tight end Jordan Matthews has also been let go as the Panthers look to evaluate their depth at the position.
General Manager Dan Morgan had previously been reticent about Clowney’s future when asked during the draft, indicating uncertainty about his role within the team. With Clowney’s release, the Panthers now have a mix of established and up-and-coming edge rushers, including returning starters D.J. Wonnum and D.J. Johnson, who has struggled to make an impact since being drafted in 2023.
As Carolina navigates these changes, the team is clearly positioning itself for a new direction, emphasizing youth and adaptability as they build for the future. The upcoming rookie minicamp will provide a crucial opportunity for new draft picks and free agents to make their mark as the Panthers strive for improvement in the coming season.
