Last week, the Buffalo Bills made news in the NFL with a trade involving the Cleveland Browns that brought wide receiver Amari Cooper to One Bills Drive. Cooper’s debut with Buffalo was promising, raising hopes that his addition will strengthen the overall wide receiver corps going forward.
Could it be that general manager Brandon Beane still has more talent to add to the Buffalo roster this season? Bills Mafia has learned to expect the unexpected with Beane at the helm. Some in the national media speculate that Beane’s team might pursue a trade with the Carolina Panthers to acquire veteran defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.
Take a look at this excerpt from Sports Illustrated writer Matt Verderame’s article regarding the forthcoming NFL trade deadline:
If the Panthers choose to part ways with some of their veteran players, keep an eye on the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo and Carolina share long-standing relationships within their front offices, as Carolina general manager Dan Morgan previously worked with Buffalo GM Brandon Beane from 2018 to 2020. Moreover, Beane came to the Bills after spending 19 years with the Panthers. Although Buffalo has already secured a receiver in Amari Cooper, acquiring another pass rusher could be beneficial. Clowney, now 31, is a solid option and will be a free agent at the end of this season.
Our curiosity is certainly piqued. One notable aspect of Clowney’s career is that following the completion of his five-year rookie contract with the Houston Texans, he has moved around the NFL primarily on a year-to-year basis across five different teams. His most extended period was spent with the Cleveland Browns, where he played two seasons immediately after leaving the Texans.
Reasons for the Bills to Trade for Jadeveon Clowney
Longtime followers of Buffalo Rumblings undoubtedly recognize Clowney, as he was a favored prospect for many here prior to the draft. This single play from his college career had fans imagining his potential impact as an unstoppable defensive end for the Bills:
10 years ago today, Jadeveon Clowney had one of the most electric plays in college football history.
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Where were you when The Hit happened? ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/6V4W5BOWaw— Gamecocks Today (@GamecocksToday) January 1, 2023
While that footage may be nearly 12 years old now, Clowney remains a powerful presence on the field. Although he’s 31 years old and has a birthday on Valentine’s Day, he isn’t ready to entertain discussions about his prime being in the past.
Buffalo’s defense has faced challenges against the run this season, which becomes clear in light of performances from running backs like Derrick Henry and Breece Hall. Adding a player as capable against the run as Clowney would represent a significant upgrade for the Bills.
Furthermore, Clowney’s role as a pass rusher would greatly enhance Buffalo’s defensive lineup, complementing talents such as defensive ends Greg Rousseau and A.J. Epenesa, as well as edge rusher Von Miller.
Reasons the Panthers Are Trading Jadeveon Clowney
This season, the Panthers have struggled significantly, with a 1-6 record and six losses by two or more scores. Their primary goal is not competing but rather securing a higher draft pick for the 2025 NFL Draft. Head coach Dave Canales made the decision to bench second-year quarterback Bryce Young — the top overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft — in favor of veteran Andy Dalton. While this move initially yielded positive results, the benefits diminished rapidly in the following weeks.
As a result, the Panthers could be inclined to clear cap space by letting veterans go, allowing them the opportunity for a fresh start in a more competitive environment.
Contract Details for Jadeveon Clowney
As previously mentioned, Clowney is in the final year of his contract and will become a free agent at the end of the season. According to Spotrac, Clowney signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Panthers prior to the 2023 NFL season. This contract includes an $8 million signing bonus, $12 million guaranteed, and averages $10 million annually across both years. Clowney’s cap hit is projected to be $6 million for the 2024 NFL season, according to Spotrac.
Jadeveon Clowney’s Statistics
In five games this season, Clowney has recorded 12 tackles (6 solo), two tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, and one sack. During the 2023 season, he played in 17 games (15 as a starter) and compiled 43 tackles (24 solo), nine tackles for loss, 19 quarterback hits, 9.5 sacks, five pass defenses, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
According to Pro Football Reference, throughout his 11-year NFL career, Jadeveon Clowney has started 118 games out of 131 total appearances, accumulating 375 tackles (254 solo), 101 tackles for loss, 130 quarterback hits, 53.5 sacks, 28 pass defenses, 15 forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries (totaling 85 yards), three fumble return touchdowns, and one interception returned for a touchdown of 27 yards.
Could Jadeveon Clowney Be the Next Key Addition for the Buffalo Bills?
Overview of Jadeveon Clowney’s Career
Jadeveon Clowney, a standout defensive end, has made a name for himself in the NFL with his explosive playing style and versatility on the field. Drafted first overall by the Houston Texans in 2014, Clowney quickly became known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, showcasing skills in both pass rushing and run defense. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the Texans, Seattle Seahawks, and most recently, the Cleveland Browns.
Current Status and Performance
As of the 2023 NFL season, Jadeveon Clowney is a free agent, leaving fans and analysts speculating about his next move. His performance in the previous seasons has been a mixed bag, marked by flashes of brilliance and some injury setbacks. Here’s a breakdown of Clowney’s stats from the last few seasons:
| Season | Team | Games Played | Sacks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Tennessee Titans | 8 | 0 | 19 |
| 2021 | Cleveland Browns | 14 | 9 | 50 |
| 2022 | Cleveland Browns | 12 | 2 | 30 |
Why the Buffalo Bills Might Consider Clowney
The Buffalo Bills are known for their strong defense, but there is always room for improvement, especially with the team’s aspirations for a Super Bowl title. Here are several reasons why Jadeveon Clowney could be a strategic addition to the Bills’ roster:
- Adding Depth to the Defensive Line: With the potential for injuries during the grueling NFL season, Clowney can provide essential depth and experience to the Bills’ defensive line.
- Pass Rush Potential: Clowney’s unique ability to rush the passer could elevate the Bills’ already formidable defense. Paired with star players like Von Miller, Clowney could create a lethal pass-rushing duo.
- Versatile Defensive Skills: Clowney’s versatile skill set allows him to play multiple positions on the defensive line, making him a flexible asset in various defensive schemes.
- Experience in Big Games: Having played in several playoff games, Clowney brings leadership and experience to a young Bills team that is eager to make a deep playoff run.
Benefits of Adding Clowney to the Bills
Integrating Jadeveon Clowney into the Buffalo Bills’ roster could provide multiple advantages:
1. Enhanced Defensive Strategy
By incorporating Clowney, the Bills can implement a more aggressive defensive strategy. His ability to disrupt plays can force quick decisions from quarterbacks, resulting in more turnovers and fewer scoring opportunities for opponents.
2. Boost in Team Morale
Clowney’s dynamic playstyle and experience in high-stakes situations can uplift team morale. His presence could motivate younger players to elevate their game and strive for greatness.
3. Impact on Opposing Offenses
With the addition of Clowney, opposing offenses would need to rethink their strategies. His ability to command double teams can open up opportunities for other defensive players to make impactful plays.
Case Studies: Teams that Benefited from Signing Clowney
To illustrate the potential impact of Clowney on a team, let’s look at two case studies from his career:
Seattle Seahawks (2019 Season)
In 2019, Clowney was traded to the Seattle Seahawks, where he made an immediate impact. He played a crucial role in the team’s run to the playoffs, recording 3 sacks and 41 tackles while also forcing two fumbles. His performance boosted the Seahawks’ defensive capabilities significantly, showcasing what he can bring to a playoff-contending team.
Cleveland Browns (2021 Season)
During his time with the Browns, Clowney had a standout campaign, finishing the season with 9 sacks and becoming a key player in their defensive lineup. His on-field effectiveness helped the Browns reach the playoffs, underlining how his addition can transform a team’s fortunes.
Practical Tips for the Buffalo Bills Management
If the Buffalo Bills decide to pursue Jadeveon Clowney, here are some practical tips for their management team:
- Conduct a Thorough Injury Assessment: Given Clowney’s history with injuries, it’s vital to conduct comprehensive medical evaluations to ensure he can contribute effectively.
- Develop a Customized Role: Tailor his role within the defensive scheme to maximize his strengths, particularly in pass-rushing situations.
- Monitor Workload: Managing Clowney’s workload during practices and games can help preserve his energy and minimize injury risks.
First-Hand Experience: Players’ Insights on Clowney
Players who have competed alongside or against Jadeveon Clowney often speak highly of his work ethic and impact on the field. Here’s what some of them have said:
“Jadeveon is a beast on the field. You can never take a play off when he’s around. He pushes you to be better.” - Former teammate
“You always have to account for him. He changes the game in ways most players can’t.” – Opposing quarterback
Conclusion: The Future with Jadeveon Clowney
As the Buffalo Bills continue to build their roster with championship aspirations, the prospect of adding Jadeveon Clowney presents a tantalizing opportunity. His unique blend of talent, experience, and versatility could be the missing piece in their quest for a Super Bowl title.
