The Carolina Panthers have strengthened their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks by reaching an agreement with veteran free agent Jadeveon Clowney, who was the top pick in the 2014 draft.
Clowney has agreed to a two-year contract worth $20 million, with the potential to earn up to $24 million with incentives. He will be returning to his hometown of Rock Hill, South Carolina, which is close to where the Panthers play their home games.
At 31 years old, Clowney is coming off a successful season with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, during which he recorded 9 1/2 sacks. In Carolina, he will play as an outside linebacker in the team’s 3-4 defensive scheme.
Clowney has previously played for the Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens, amassing a total of 52 1/2 sacks throughout his career.
Clowney’s arrival helps to fill the void left by outside linebacker Brian Burns, who was traded to the New York Giants earlier in the offseason. The Panthers struggled with pass rushing last season, finishing with the lowest sack total in the league.
Clowney is expected to partner with fellow pass rusher D.J. Wonnum, who was signed earlier in the offseason by the Minnesota Vikings. Additionally, the Panthers have added free-agent pass rusher K’Lavon Chaisson to further bolster their defense.
In addition to the acquisition of Clowney, the Panthers have also re-signed safety Sam Franklin, who has been a key contributor on special teams for the team over the past two seasons.
