Take: A do-it-all off-ball linebacker with the diagnostic skills and athleticism to beat backs to the perimeter, drop into coverage and attack quarterbacks, Hill would have ranked among the best at his position in the 2025 draft, had he been eligible.

For the second consecutive draft, the Panthers took a receiver with the intent on giving Bryce Young another playmaker.

Per ESPN's David Newton, the Panthers had discussions about trading Clowney prior to the start of the 2025 NFL draft. Even though nothing came of those talks, Newton noted Panthers general manager Dan Morgan offered a noncommittal response when asked about Clowney's future with the organization on Friday.