Panthers-Cardinals Trade Proposal Sends Disappointing Former First-Rounder to Carolina
With the departure of Jadeveon Clowney this offseason, the Carolina Panthers may be in need of an edge rusher to fill the void.
Clowney, who led the team with 5.5 sacks in 2024, was released by the Panthers last month, leaving a significant question mark on the edge of their defense.
While the team will look to players like D.J. Wonnum, Patrick Jones, and rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen to step up, none of these options are guaranteed to deliver.
Anthony Palacios of Last Word on Sports suggests that the Panthers should consider reaching out to the Arizona Cardinals about edge rusher Zaven Collins.
“With Clowney gone, the Panthers need at least a short-term solution, especially after shoring up the defensive line with Derrick Brown and Tershawn Wharton,” Palacios said. “Collins could help solidify the defense, especially given that Josey Jewell hasn’t done anything to fully secure his starting role.”
Collins, a former first-round pick, has yet to live up to expectations since entering the NFL. Originally drafted as a safety, the Tulsa product has transitioned to both inside and outside linebacker. In 2024, he recorded a career-high five sacks while playing on the edge.
Although Collins may not be the flashy addition some Panthers fans hope for, he offers solid potential to replace the production lost with Clowney’s exit. He also brings versatility, capable of stepping in at multiple positions should injuries arise.
To acquire Collins, the Panthers would likely need to part with a mid-Day 3 draft pick. However, his contract through 2026 makes him a reasonable investment.
Adding Collins would provide a sufficient replacement for Clowney, while allowing younger players like Scourton and Umanmielen to develop without the pressure of immediate starting roles.
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