Shockwaves in the NFL: Why the Former No. 1 Draft Pick Was Suddenly Released This Week

When you see the NFL logo stitched onto a football—as crisp and commanding as the one pictured here before a Vikings-Bears clash—you can’t help but think about the drama and unpredictability the league never fails to deliver. Just when you think a veteran star’s story is settled, bam! Another twist. This week’s shocker? Jadeveon Clowney, once a heralded No. 1 overall pick and a relentless force on the edge, suddenly finds himself doused by the Panthers’ roster bonfire and sent back into free agency. Is this a sign of the times in a league that’s always chasing youth and cap space, or a tough rebuke of a once-dominant defender’s fading prime? Either way, Clowney’s whirlwind journey—from Pro Bowls in Houston to a steady carousel of teams—reminds us just how merciless and riveting NFL careers really are. And honestly, wouldn’t you be curious which team’s defense he lands on next? The salary cap shakeups aren’t just numbers on paper—they’re the pulse of a game where every move tells a story.

NFL roster shakeups continue as teams prepare for the upcoming season.

Among the flurry of recent transactions, one veteran defender suddenly finds himself looking for a new team.

The Carolina Panthers announced a surprising move on Thursday, parting ways with established pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney.

The former South Carolina standout, who began his professional journey as the number one overall pick, now heads back into free agency after a brief stint in Carolina.

“The Panthers are releasing edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, per sources,” NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported.

The #Panthers are releasing edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, per sources. pic.twitter.com/apRKKoWcjN

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 8, 2025

This latest team change adds another chapter to Clowney’s well-traveled NFL career.

The veteran defender has suited up for six different franchises throughout his time in the league, including five different teams over just the past six seasons.

Despite the constant movement, Clowney’s early years with the Houston Texans remain his most impressive, earning three straight Pro Bowl nods from 2015 to 2018.

During that impressive stretch, he consistently delivered impact plays, recording at least six sacks and 45 tackles each season while establishing himself as one of the most feared defensive players in football.

Though Clowney may not bring the same explosive athleticism that defined his early career, he still offers valuable production and veteran leadership in the pass-rushing department.

The decision to release him reflects the Panthers’ current rebuild strategy rather than his on field capabilities.

By moving on from Clowney, the Carolina Panthers create approximately $7.78 million in salary cap flexibility, though they’ll absorb a $6 million dead cap hit and still owe him $2 million as part of the separation.

For teams in need of defensive line help, Clowney now represents an intriguing mid-year addition with plenty of big game experience and disruption potential still left in the tank.

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