The Carolina Panthers surprised many by quietly securing the signature of free agent outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney, an acquisition announced on Wednesday. While the exact terms were not officially disclosed by the team, both ESPN and NFL Network revealed it to be a two-year contract valued at $20 million, potentially rising to $24 million with performance-based incentives.
Clowney’s arrival addresses a significant gap in the Panthers’ roster following the departure of Pro Bowl pass rusher Brian Burns to the New York Giants earlier in the month and the loss of Yetur Gross-Matos in free agency. Despite strong competition from the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, the Panthers successfully secured the services of Clowney, a formidable presence with three Pro Bowl selections to his name.
At 31 years old, Clowney comes off an impressive season with the Ravens, where he amassed 9.5 sacks across 17 games, including 15 starts. This performance matched his career-best sack tally achieved in 2017. With the Panthers, Clowney will be donning his sixth NFL jersey, having spent his initial five seasons with the Houston Texans, who drafted him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 draft. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 52.5 sacks in 126 games, boasting 113 starts.
Before entering the professional ranks, Clowney made a name for himself at South Carolina, showcasing his exceptional talents that would later translate into a successful NFL career.
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