EXCLUSIVE: According to reports, Carolina Panthers are set to trade star pass rusher to the Buffalo Bills

The Carolina Panthers are expected to be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline, and one possibility is edge rusher landing with the Buffalo Bills. The top pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, initially struggled with injuries but has since become one of the league’s more effective all-around pass rushers. With the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, Clowney tallied 9.5 sacks, 43 tackles, and 19 quarterback hits, playing a crucial role in their run to the AFC Championship Game.

After his successful stint with Baltimore, Clowney signed a two-year contract with the Panthers to help  replace the departed Brian Burns. However, with just one sack on the season, he might benefit from a fresh start in a new system. Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame speculates that if the Panthers decide to trade some veterans, the Bills could be a strong fit.

The Bills and Panthers have a history of front-office connections. Carolina’s GM Dan Morgan previously worked under Buffalo’s GM Brandon Beane from 2018 to 2020, and Beane spent the first 19 years of his career with the Panthers. Buffalo, who recently added receiver Amari Cooper, might still look to bolster their pass rush with Clowney, especially since he is set to become a free agent after this season.

Panthers, Bills Could Agree to A Jadeveon Clowney Trade

Jadeveon Clowney won’t reach free agency until after the 2025 season, but Matt Verderame’s suggestion that he could be traded to the Buffalo Bills remains relevant. The Bills are leading a relatively weak AFC East and could potentially clinch the division as early as November, though their focus extends well beyond a division title. After a disappointing series of playoff exits since their 2020 AFC Championship Game appearance, Buffalo is determined to make a serious run at the Lombardi Trophy, recognizing that every roster spot is crucial to that pursuit.

With just one bye week available in the playoffs, the 6-2 Bills need to maximize their chances for January, especially with challenging games on the horizon against the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions. While Buffalo already boasts a strong pass rush, adding Clowney would further elevate their roster, increasing their chances in high-stakes matchups and helping them break through in the postseason.

Will the Panthers Do This?

The Buffalo Bills’ interest in Jadeveon Clowney is understandable, but the Carolina Panthers must weigh whether they can afford to trade him. While Carolina isn’t expected to contend in 2024, they’ll still need reliable edge defenders in 2025. Head coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan made significant improvements to the offensive line this offseason, but that came at the cost of the defense. Currently, the defensive unit ranks poorly across multiple metrics, and they may be hesitant to part with a player like Clowney, who could provide stability next year.

Although Clowney’s performance hasn’t entirely matched his contract, he isn’t a liability. With a focus on securing a new quarterback in the upcoming offseason, the Panthers may be reluctant to allocate further funds toward defense. However, if the Bills present a worthwhile draft pick, Carolina might be willing to move Clowney—though it’s unlikely they’ll part with him for anything less than fair compensation.