Jadeveon Clowney visits Dallas Cowboys in free agency: Former No. 1 pick eyes NFL return after Micah Parsons traded to Green Bay Packers

Veteran defensive end Jadeveon Clowney could soon be back on an NFL roster. After being connected to the Baltimore Ravens for much of the offseason, the 32-year-old is now in Texas to meet with the Dallas Cowboys, according to Josina Anderson.

Clowney, who did not play in Week 1, is reportedly exploring a potential role with a Cowboys defense that suddenly finds itself in need of depth on the edge. With Micah Parsons now in Green Bay, Dallas has a clear hole to fill in its pass-rushing unit. Clowney has a history of signing late in the offseason, and this visit could lead to a quick deal if both sides are aligned.

Jadeveon Clowney brings experience to a young Dallas Cowboys edge group after Micah Parsons' exit

Clowney, 32, spent the 2024 season with the Carolina Panthers and put up solid numbers: 46 combined tackles, 5.5 sacks, 11 quarterback hits, and nine tackles for loss across 14 games.

He’s just two years removed from one of the best campaigns of his career, tallying 9.5 sacks with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023. Over 11 seasons, the former No. 1 overall pick has logged 58 career sacks. Dallas is currently leaning on a young edge group that includes Sam Williams, Dante Fowler Jr.

, Marshawn Kneeland, James Houston, and rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku following the exit of Micah Parsons.

Jadeveon Clowney posted solid numbers in 2024 with the Carolina Panthers

In 14 games last season with the Carolina Panthers, Clowney finished with 46 total tackles and 5.5 sacks—a productive year for a rotational edge rusher.

He may no longer be a full-time starter, but his ability to disrupt plays off the edge in passing situations remains valuable, especially for a team like Dallas that is trying to stay competitive after roster turnover. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, Clowney has had stints with multiple teams including the Texans, Seahawks, Titans, and Browns, and has developed into a trusted veteran presence who understands how to make an impact in specific defensive packages.

Why the Cowboys could use Jadeveon Clowney’s experience right now

At this point in his career, Clowney is best suited for a rotational pass-rushing role, particularly in third-down or obvious passing situations. The Cowboys have young talent across the defensive line, but with Parsons gone, the team is likely looking for a veteran who can help bring pressure without needing to play every down.Also read: 'I felt like garbage': Travis Kelce takes full blame after brutal collision knocked Kansas City Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy out in Brazil gameClowney fits that mold well—and could provide leadership in the locker room as well as production on the field.