Jadeveon Clowney is entering a new chapter once again. The three-time Pro Bowler is now a free agent and looking for his seventh team. Now heading into his age-32 season, the former No. 1 overall pick is left to figure out what went wrong—and how to make sure this next stop is his last.
The choice to move on from Clowney by the Panthers is puzzling, as the pass rusher was coming off a productive season with 5.5 sacks, nine tackles for loss, and 11 quarterback hits. His former head coach offered some insight into the decision.
Dave Canales Explains Why Panthers Moved On From Jadeveon Clowney
According to a May 9 post on social media by Underdog NFL, Panthers head coach Dave Canales appeared to suggest the team’s decision was rooted in youth development.
HC Canales on Panthers releasing EDGE Jadeveon Clowney:
"We're developmentally minded. We understand we bring [EDGEs Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen] in, and all those reps are valuable. This is a time to make sure they're getting the volume of the reps and the learning."
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) May 9, 2025
“We’re developmentally minded. We understand we bring [EDGEs Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen] in, and all those reps are valuable. This is a time to make sure they’re getting the volume of the reps and the learning,” Canales said.
In other words, the Panthers didn’t want to invest in a veteran nearing the end of his career. Clowney has remained productive, but he’s closer to the finish line than the starting block.
Scourton is just 20 years old. Umanmielen is 23. The lessons they learn now could pay off for years to come—Scourton will still be younger a decade from now than Clowney is today. Of course, this likely isn’t the end for the newly available free agent. Clowney’s landing spot options remain plentiful.
Clowney’s Exit Just One of Several Notable Panthers Offseason Moves
While Clowney’s exit is significant, it’s far from the only move Carolina made this offseason.
The Panthers were busy during the 2025 NFL Draft, adding wide receivers Tetairoa McMillan and Jimmy Horn Jr., as well as Umanmielen, safety Lathan Ransom, defensive tackle Cam Jackson, and running back Trevor Etienne.
Carolina also made additions in free agency, signing wide receiver Hunter Renfrow and former Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle.
Heading into the offseason, one of the biggest questions surrounding the team was whether they’d buy into quarterback Bryce Young’s late-season surge. By choosing to surround him with more talent on offense while overhauling the defense, the Panthers showed they’re all-in on Young—for at least one more season.
Of course, by committing to him and reshaping the roster, expectations will rise. Otherwise, moving on from Clowney may prove to be a costly misstep.