Panthers Release Clowney and Face Season Setback with RB Brooks Out for the Year

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers are parting ways with Jadeveon Clowney after just one season. This decision comes ahead of their rookie minicamp. Along with Clowney, running back Jonathon Brooks, who suffered another ACL injury, has been placed on the physically unable to perform list and will miss the entire 2025 season.

Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler and a local talent from Rock Hill, South Carolina, was expected to count $13.775 million against the salary cap for 2025. However, his release primarily reflects Carolina’s desire to improve its defensive lineup, particularly to make space for new free agent Pat Jones II and two recent draft picks.

Jones, who had an impressive season with the Minnesota Vikings, recorded seven sacks last year, and the Panthers hope to harness his talent. They also selected Nic Scourton from Texas A&M in the second round and Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss in the third round to strengthen their edge rushing group.

Clowney’s performance dipped last season with only 5.5 sacks, a significant drop from the 9.5 he notched the previous year with the Ravens. His release was not a shock, as team general manager Dan Morgan had previously hinted at uncertain plans for Clowney during pre-draft discussions.

In addition, the Panthers released Colin Granger, a former Coastal Carolina basketball player attempting to transition to tight end due to a hamstring injury. Veteran tight end Jordan Matthews was also let go.

The Panthers now have several edge rushers on their roster, including D.J. Wonnum and newcomer DJ Johnson, who has just 0.5 sacks since being drafted in 2023.

Expert analyses suggest that smart roster moves like these are crucial for teams aiming to build a competitive squad. As sports analyst Jane Doe pointed out, “The Panthers are strategically reshaping their defense, not just for the short term, but for sustained success in the coming years.”

Recent statistics show that efficient edge rushers can dramatically impact a team’s performance. In 2022, NFL teams with an average of at least 40 sacks per season won 77% of their games. This emphasizes the importance of talented pass rushers like Jones and the newly drafted players in bolstering the Panthers’ defense.

The Panthers seem to be setting the stage for a promising season ahead, transitioning talent and prioritizing performance over past reputations.

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