Panthers Vet Likely Just Played His Last Game for Carolina in Week 9

The Panthers are seemingly prepared to accept another long rebuild, having failed by drafting QB Bryce Young and punished by a roster incapable of competing.

As showcased by this week's trade of standout WR Diontae Johnson, which wasn't exactly popular, Carolina doesn't have much choice but to compile as many draft picks as possible and hope for the best. GM Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales haven't been with the franchise long enough to leave their stamp, so this offseason represents their first major opportunity to avoid any discussions of respective hot seats.

Based on Week 9's results against the Saints, they have just a couple of days left to capitalize on star DE Jadeveon Clowney's potential trade value.

Panthers DE Jadeveon Clowney Likely to Be Traded After Week 9

This is Clowney's first year with the organization after spending time with the Ravens, Browns, Titans, Seahawks, and Texans. He only has one sack this year but is still among the most effective Carolina defenders with six pressures.

That limited performance speaks more to the unit's ineffectiveness than Clowney's excellence, but he's still a valuable trade chip nonetheless. He had 9.5 sacks with Baltimore in 2023, and his former team is just one of many defenses who would benefit from his presence.

In a best-care scenario for the Panthers, they'd get a mid-round pick for the three-time Pro Bowler. As a pending free agent, he'd merely be a rental for any team acquiring him. Diontae Johnson perfectly showcased how that can impact a player's trade value, though Clowney should still bring back a moderate return.

No matter how you look at it, this is a lost season for a the franchise. Carolina has an opportunity to make things right moving forward but the front office needs to act quickly before it's too late.

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