In a jaw-dropping mid-offseason maneuver that’s sent shockwaves across the NFL landscape, the Baltimore Ravens have acquired edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney from the Carolina Panthers. The trade, finalized late Sunday evening, marks one of the boldest defensive moves of the offseason and firmly plants the Ravens in the center of the Super Bowl conversation.
Clowney, 31, had signed a two-year deal with the Panthers earlier this year after a resurgent 2023 campaign with Baltimore. But after Carolina’s front office pivoted toward a rebuild under new leadership, Baltimore pounced on the opportunity to bring back one of the league’s most disruptive defenders. While full trade terms have yet to be disclosed, sources confirm that Baltimore parted ways with a mid-round draft pick and a conditional late-rounder in 2026.
The move reunites Clowney with defensive coordinator Zach Orr, who helped maximize his production last season. In 2023, Clowney racked up 9.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 19 QB hits, anchoring a Ravens defense that finished among the league’s best in nearly every category. His return immediately bolsters a unit already featuring Roquan Smith, Kyle Hamilton, and newly re-signed defensive lineman Justin Madubuike.
“We couldn’t pass up the chance to bring back a guy who fits our identity perfectly,” said Ravens GM Eric DeCosta. “Jadeveon is relentless, physical, and passionate. He elevates everyone around him. This is about chasing a championship.”
The Ravens, who came within one win of the Super Bowl in 2023, have signaled that anything short of a title run in 2025 would be a disappointment. With Lamar Jackson returning at MVP form, a dynamic receiving corps led by Zay Flowers, and a defense that now once again features Clowney, Baltimore is assembling one of the most balanced rosters in the NFL.
On Clowney’s side, the reunion seems just as welcomed. “Baltimore felt like home last year,” he said in a brief statement. “I want to finish what we started. This team is special.”
For Carolina, the decision reflects a longer-term vision. New head coach Dave Canales is reportedly focused on developing young talent and giving 2023 No. 1 pick Bryce Young the tools to succeed. With Clowney off the books, the Panthers gain financial flexibility and draft capital to reshape their roster.
Still, the headline belongs to the Ravens, who’ve now made their most aggressive push yet toward winning their first Super Bowl in over a decade. With Clowney reinserted into the fold and Baltimore’s coaching staff already building on continuity, the message is clear: the Ravens are going all in.
As the rest of the AFC recalibrates, Baltimore’s message is loud and clear—they’re not just contenders. They’re coming for it all.
