According to one reporter, the Carolina Panthers could trade star pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney to the Buffalo Bills.
The Carolina Panthers are expected to be sellers at the trade deadline, with speculation that edge defender Jadeveon Clowney might be traded to the Buffalo Bills. Clowney, the first overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, faced injuries early in his career but has become one of the league’s top all-around rushers. In the 2023 season with the Baltimore Ravens, he recorded 9.5 sacks, 43 tackles, and 19 quarterback hits, contributing to the team’s run to the AFC Championship Game.
After this success, Clowney signed a two-year contract with the Panthers, aimed at filling the gap left by Brian Burns. However, he has only notched one sack so far. With the Panthers sitting at 1-7, Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame suggests that a trade involving Clowney could be on the horizon.
If the Panthers choose to move some veteran players, the Bills could be a likely destination. There are established connections between the two teams, as Panthers GM Dan Morgan previously worked under Buffalo GM Brandon Beane, who himself has a long history with Carolina.
Although the Bills recently added receiver Amari Cooper, acquiring another pass rusher like Clowney could be beneficial, especially since he will be a free agent after this season.
While Clowney is not set to become a free agent until after the 2025 season, the possibility of a trade remains. The Bills currently lead a weak AFC East and aim to go beyond simply winning the division, especially after their AFC Championship Game appearance in 2020. They understand that every player on the roster plays a crucial role in their pursuit of a Super Bowl victory.
With only one bye week available in the playoffs, the 6-2 Bills need to enhance their roster for critical upcoming games against the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions. Strengthening their pass rush with Clowney could significantly improve their chances in these tough matchups.
However, the Panthers face a tough decision. While they may not compete in 2024, they will need players like Clowney for the future. The coaching staff has successfully improved the offensive line but at the cost of the defense, which currently ranks poorly in several metrics.
Clowney isn’t living up to his contract but remains a valuable player. The Panthers might consider a trade if the Bills present a solid offer, but they won’t let him go cheaply.
