The Carolina Panthers face a pivotal offseason as they aim to enhance their roster for a serious run in the NFC South. Following encouraging progress in the second half of 2024, they are positioned closer to contention, despite currently holding about $30 million in salary cap space, ranking 20th in the NFL. To address multiple team needs, the Panthers must consider difficult financial decisions, including potentially trading Jadeveon Clowney, whose performance has not matched expectations. The team would save approximately $8 million by moving on from Clowney, allowing them to pursue younger and more dynamic pass rushers or even attract a star player to bolster their lineup.