Following his meeting with the Carolina Panthers on Thursday, veteran linebacker Jadeveon Clowney appears poised to continue exploring potential landing spots in the NFL.
According to a report by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Clowney is scheduled to sit down with the New York Jets next week. Garafolo indicated that Clowney intends to survey several options before reaching a decision on where he’ll take the field in 2024.
The top selection in the 2014 draft, Clowney showcased his enduring prowess during the 2023 season with the Baltimore Ravens. Playing in all 17 games, he matched his career-best with 9.5 sacks, along with 43 total tackles, four passes defended, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
The Jets find themselves in need of a formidable pass-rusher following the departure of Bryce Huff, their sack leader in free agency, who inked a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. Huff, a former undrafted free agent, enjoyed a breakout 2023 season, tallying 10 sacks.
Though the Jets boast Will McDonald, the 2023 No. 15 pick, waiting in the wings for increased playing time, adding a seasoned veteran like Clowney could help offset the loss of Huff. Nonetheless, the competition for pass-rushers is fierce.
Joseph Person of The Athletic reported that the Panthers secured former Minnesota Vikings edge rusher D.J. Wonnum with a two-year, $12.5 million contract after meeting with him on Thursday. Despite this acquisition, Clowney departed his visit without a deal, and defensive end Chase Young likewise remains without an agreement, with plans to meet with the New Orleans Saints on Friday.
Person noted that Carolina is still keen on bolstering their pass-rushing corps, even after securing Wonnum. Given Clowney’s ties to the Charlotte area, a potential signing with the Panthers remains a possibility.
