Star defensive end Jadeveon Clowney is hot on the recruiting trail days after signing with his hometown team, the Carolina Panthers. Clowney is trying to help rebuild a roster that finished dead last season in the league. And he’s looking for a key player from the 2023 Dallas Cowboys.

Jadeveon Clowney wanted to be closer to home

Oct 8, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (24) warms up before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Clowney turned heads this week when he turned down opportunities to play for the New York Jets or return to the Baltimore Ravens. Both teams are expected to be in the playoff hunt in the upcoming season. Clowney wanted to return to the Carolinas, and he’s trying to recruit other local talent.Ezoic

Clowney wants a former Dallas Cowboys player to join the Panthers

October 8, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Stephon Gilmore (21) warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Per video posted by Matt Vereen with Wach Fox of Clowney at a press conference Friday, the new Panthers pass rusher said he’s trying to persuade Stephon Gilmore to sign with the Panthers.

Gilmore is a local from the Carolinas

Nov 23, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Stephon Gilmore (21) and Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Gilmore is from Rock Hill, South Carolina. Gilmore is a two-time All-Pro and a five-time Pro Bowl nominee. The 33-year-old played for the Dallas Cowboys last season after being traded there by the Indianapolis Colts. He hit free agency this offseason.

Gilmore played for the Panthers in the 2021 season. He’s reportedly talking to the Panthers about signing with Carolina for the upcoming season.

Gilmore said earlier this offseason his “goal” was to return to the College for the 2024 season. But we’ll see if the lure of returning home trumps a rebuilding season in Dallas.