Panthers Cut Ties With Former First-Round Pass-Rusher Ahead of Week 1

The Carolina Panthers have released pass rusher K'Lavon Chaisson just days before the team's opener against the New Orleans Saints.

The team officially announced the move on Tuesday.

Chaisson was a first-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars out of LSU in 2020, going No. 20 overall. He appeared in 57 games with 11 starts but never found his footing. Chaisson registered just 73 tackles and five sacks during his four years in Jacksonville.

The Panthers signed Chaisson to a one-year deal worth a maximum of $5 million this offseason.

“They’re getting a complete player and they’re getting a winner ,” Chaisson said after signing. “That’s the most important thing is the W column. I got used to winning in high school and college. It’s a mindset and acknowledgement of the grind it takes to reach a certain level and make a certain impact. It’s about competition. They’re getting someone who is truly loyal and respects the game, a true rarity. All in all, they’re getting a complete player, a complete person and human that comes with it. I feel like I have every tool it takes to be a great player.”

Chaisson will have to find another team willing to give him a shot to prove that. His release narrows the outside linebacker group to veteran Jadeveon Clowney, DJ Johnson, Eku Leota, and recent waiver pickup Jamie Sheriff.

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