Context:

The Carolina Panthers have released veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, who is now a free agent likely to attract significant interest despite a career that hasn't fully met expectations. Clowney, after a stint with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023 where he achieved a personal-best of 9.5 sacks, is predicted by analysts to potentially rejoin the Ravens, given their need for depth in a competitive AFC. His previous tenure with Baltimore was productive, although financial demands and a desire to return to Carolina led to his departure. The Ravens, having drafted Mike Green to bolster their edge positions, still see Clowney as a valuable asset due to his pass-rush and run-defense skills. Given the uncertainty of their current sack leaders replicating past performances, Clowney's addition could provide crucial reinforcement to Baltimore's defensive line if financial terms align.

Dive Deeper:

• Jadeveon Clowney, released by the Carolina Panthers, is now a free agent, with his release following the Panthers’ acquisition of two new edge rushers during the 2025 NFL draft. Despite his past as a No. 1 overall pick, his career has been viewed as underwhelming, yet he remains a coveted free agent.

• Analyst Ayrton Ostly from USA TODAY predicts Clowney may return to the Baltimore Ravens, where he had a successful 2023 season with a career-high 9.5 sacks, matching his performance peak from 2017.

• Clowney had a productive 2023 season with the Ravens, appearing in 14 games, accruing 5.5 sacks and 44 pressures, and achieving a pass-rush grade of 73.2, ranking him 30th among edge rushers according to Pro Football Focus.

• The Ravens, who drafted Mike Green as an edge rusher, are still seeking depth in their pass-rush lineup, especially in the competitive AFC environment, and Clowney's familiarity with the team and proven skills make him a logical fit.

• Baltimore's current sack leaders, Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, had outstanding seasons last year, but there is uncertainty about their ability to replicate such performances, increasing the appeal of bringing back Clowney.

• Clowney is recognized not only for his pass-rushing abilities but also as a strong run defender, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to strengthen their defensive line.

• The Ravens see a reunion with Clowney as highly beneficial, assuming they can agree on a reasonable contract, given his potential to significantly bolster their defensive capabilities.

• The Carolina Panthers sent a new edge rusher to the free-agent market on Thursday, with the team releasing veteran Jadeveon Clowney.

• The move comes on the heels of the Panthers adding a pair of edge rushers during the 2025 NFL draft. Carolina attempted to trade Clowney, per ESPN's David Newton, but couldn't get it done, leading to his release.

• Clowney is now free to sign with any team, and despite a disappointing career after he was formerly a No. 1 overall pick, Clowney is sure to draw interest on the open market.

• One analyst, USA TODAY's Ayrton Ostly, predicts that Clowney will land on his feet with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency.

• "This one almost makes too much sense. There's plenty of familiarity for the two parties as Clowney tied a career-high with 9.5 sacks with Baltimore in 2023," Ostly said. "Baltimore spent a second-round pick at edge in the draft with Mike Green but that shouldn't preclude them from looking for more depth in an ultra-competitive AFC."

• As Ostly notes, Clowney spent the 2023 campaign with the Ravens and had one of the best showings of his career with a personal-best 9.5 sacks, tying his previous high-water mark from 2017. But his desire to return home to Carolina, and the significant price he commanded, led to his divorce with Baltimore.

• Clowney was productive in 14 games last season, with the South Carolina product finishing with 5.5 sacks and 44 total pressures. Clowney ranked 30th among edge rushers with a pass-rush grade of 73.2, per Pro Football Focus.

• When it comes to competing in the loaded AFC like the Ravens have to do, you can never have enough edge rushers.

• Adding to that, Baltimore's sack leaders from last season, Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, had career-best years and there's no telling if they'll be able to do that again. The draft selection of Mike Green was a good one, but it remains to be seen what he'll be able to contribute in Year 1.

• Clowney would be a perfect reinforcement for Baltimore's pass-rush, and he has proven to be a plus run defender throughout his career. It makes all the sense in the world for the Ravens to reunite with their old friend, assuming the price is fair.

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