The signing of Jadeveon Clowney means another hometown hero could also be returning soon

One hometown hero chose to play for the Carolina Panthers and another may be on the way. 

Jadeveon Clowney, the Rock Hill, South Carolina, native elected to play for the team 30 minutes north of his hometown. And with the signing of Clowney, the Panthers now have an opportunity to add cornerback Stephon Gilmore, also a hometown hero. 

The Panthers have reached out to Gilmore about a possible return to Charlotte, Joseph Person of The Athletic reported. 

Gilmore went to the same high school as Clowney. He also made the Pro Bowl in 2021 when he played for the Panthers. 

With Carolina needing help at cornerback, Gilmore presents an option of a player who has been serviceable even as he's gotten older. 

And with Clowney coming home, Gilmore may be more incentivized to suit up in Charlotte again.