While the Carolina Panthers did well improving their defense, they could put All-Pro Jadeveon Clowney on the trade block during the 2025 NFL Draft. According to a FOX Sports source, the Panthers may be fielding trade calls for the veteran, as the team dramatically improves their defense after having one of the worst units in the league. Even though it looks like sunshine and rainbows for the future of the Carolina Panthers, it doesn’t mean Clowney’s job is safe. The Panthers are still one season away from being serious playoff contenders and since they don’t want to let Clowney go to waste, they could trade him in exchange for a legitimate draft pick this year.
One report has it that the Panthers will use this upcoming draft to focus on improving its defense. Last season, head coach Dave Canales‘ first year, was all about finding the spark for quarterback Bryce Young and the passing department. Now, they have all their answers since Young looks to be on fire, but they can’t win all of their games without a legitimate defense. The Panthers had one of the worst, but after signing Tershawn Wharton and other notable names, the team is back in business to achieve newer heights.
2025 NFL Draft: Panthers Could Put All-Pro Jadeveon Clowney On Trade Block
Meanwhile, this could signal that it’s safe to say the Panthers will trade Clowney. Originally selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, the former South Carolina product earned himself a worthy contract of $20 million following a career resurgence in Baltimore in 2023. The Ravens weren’t able to afford him anymore, so the veteran priced himself out.
While he did have some struggles at the start, DJ Wonnum helped bring him back to life. After posting 5.5 sacks, 46 total tackles and four passes defensed, he should have a legitimate trade market. Since Clowney is entering his final year, the Panthers might have to consider trading him to these two contenders to at least get some draft capital in return.
Possible Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are going all in this offseason of strengthening their championship roster, and signing DeAndre Hopkins is evidence of that. However, they’re not putting the same energy into its defense, which leaves a huge question on what they might be planning. Despite that, the Ravens should realize they must improve the edge rushing unit, as it was one of the worst last season. Even though they found some near the end of the 2024 campaign, it’s something the team should keep an eye on.
Lineback Malik Harrison is the latest Raven to leave for their rival after losing Geno Stone last offseason. Baltimore always comes close to becoming AFC Champions, but they must understand that sometimes, defense does win championships. Clowney might not be the same prime-time player, but he does provide extensive stability over Trenton Simpson and finally help ferocious players like Kyle Van Noy, Roquan Smith and Odafe Oweh.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Chiefs might not need another edge rusher, but they could use some relief on the opposite end of Nick Bolton. Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal haven’t been as explosive, but someone like Clowney could bolster the trenches unit to help star defensive tackle Chris Jones. It might not be perfect, but at least the Chiefs have another capable veteran who has a lot of experience that can translate into this already back-to-back Super Bowl roster.
The post 2025 NFL Draft: Panthers Could Put All-Pro On Trade Block appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.