The Carolina Panthers are banking on Pat Jones II to bring a fresh wave of energy to their defense. Known for his love of fishing, Jones is now focused on reeling in quarterbacks rather than fish. The former Minnesota Vikings outside linebacker signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Panthers in March, and he’s ready to make his mark.

Replacing a Legend

Jones steps into the shoes of Jadeveon Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler who was released earlier this month. Clowney had 5.5 of the Panthers' 17 sacks last season, a tally that was tied for last in the NFL. However, Jones isn’t fazed by the challenge.

"I never looked at this as an opportunity to fill any shoes," Jones said. "I looked at it as an opportunity to show everybody what I can do."

A Glimpse of Potential

Last season, Jones started only one game but recorded a career-high seven sacks in 15 games. This performance was a significant improvement over his first three seasons in Minnesota, where he totaled just four sacks. His ability to pressure the quarterback has already made him a key player for the Panthers.

Building a Strong Defense

The Panthers are not just relying on Jones. They’ve also drafted edge rushers Nic Scourton (Texas A&M) and Princely Umanmielen (Ole Miss) in the second and third rounds, respectively. These additions, along with Jones, are expected to bolster the team’s pass rush.

"They can get to the quarterback," said General Manager Dan Morgan. "They can play the run, and they can do all the things that we're going to ask them to do."

A Model for Success

The Panthers are looking to replicate the success of the Minnesota Vikings, who have maintained a steady flow of sacks despite constant turnover in their edge rushers. The Vikings finished tied for fourth last season with 49 sacks, and second in 2021 with 51.

"There was a big emphasis in the offseason on pressure and just disrupting the quarterback," Jones said. "Doing stuff like getting our hands up, getting in the pass lanes and collapsing the pocket, and just getting pressure."

Looking Ahead

With the return of Pro Bowl defensive end Derrick Brown and the additions of free agent nose tackle Bobby Brown III and defensive end Tershawn Wharton, the Panthers' defense is poised for a significant improvement. Jones believes the team has what it takes to make a big leap in QB pressure rate, which ranked last in the NFL last season at 22.7%.

"I definitely think we could do something similar, if not better," Jones said. "I've seen it before, so I know what it looks like. I look around the building and see we have exactly what it takes to do that."

A Fisherman’s Touch

Before training camp begins, Jones will indulge in his favorite pastime—fishing. Whether it’s bass, catfish, or even sharks, Jones is an avid fisherman. But once the season starts, his focus will shift to reeling in quarterbacks for the Panthers.

"I catfish, I catch bass, I fish in the ocean, I catch sharks," Jones said. "I catch red drum, I catch tuna, I catch wahoo. I catch everything."

If things go according to plan, Pat Jones II will be a key player in the Panthers' quest for a stronger defense and a successful season.