Detroit Lions fans reacted with mixed feelings after the Carolina Panthers opted to part ways with veteran outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney.

The 32-year-old veteran led the team with 5.5 sacks during what ended up being his final season in Carolina.

As the 2025 season approaches, Detroit remains focused on finding defenders who can consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. General manager Brad Holmes re-signed Marcus Davenport and added Ahmed Hassanein through the draft.

Some fans supported the idea of Detroit pursuing the skilled pass rusher, while others still hoped to see Za’Darius Smith return to the Motor City.

One fan shared on social media, “Not sure what kind of contract or salary he’ll be aiming for, but if it’s a short deal in the seven-figure range, that might be worth a look.”

Another argued Clowney wouldn’t be the right “culture fit” for head coach Dan Campbell’s locker room.

NFL columnist Jeffri Chadiha recently named Smith an ideal match for the Lions in a piece on the best NFL team fits for available free agents.

“Detroit dealt for Smith last year after star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson went down with a broken leg. Bringing Smith back could help supply the pressure this team desperately needs,” Chadiha explained. “Smith was effective in a pinch, producing 40 pressures in nine games.

His 21.5% pass rush win rate ranked third on the team (behind Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, who also got hurt), per Pro Football Focus.”