Jadeveon Clowney is back where it all began.
According to reports, the Houston Texans and the 2014 No. 1 overall pick have agreed to terms on a one-year deal. Clowney, 33, returns to the place where he became a staple as a pass-rushing icon during the 2010s under then-coach Bill O’Brien.
Once thought of as the best up-and-coming defensive end, Clowney spent five seasons in Houston opposite three-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt, helping the Texans reach the playoffs three times. Since his departure in 2019, Clowney has spent time with the Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys.
A three-time Pro Bowler in Houston, Clowney rekindled his spark last season as a member of the Cowboys’ pass rush, totaling a team-leading 8.5 sacks. He also added 10 quarterback hits and 12 tackles for loss.
The Texans aren’t looking for a starter. They have that in Will Anderson Jr. and four-time Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter. But with Derek Barnett’s absence in the No. 3 defensive end role, a conversation could be had with Clowney’s camp as a rotational third-down option who can add value in the run defense while perhaps upgrading the pass-rushing department.
Although he never lived up to becoming a generational pass-rusher, Clowney was consistent opposite Watt. Over his five seasons with the Texans, Clowney totaled career-highs in tackles (206), tackles for loss (64), sacks (29) and QB hits (67).
Texans fans are elated to see the news of a reunion of Clowney with the AFC South franchise. Here was the reaction on social media.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Social media loses its mind over Texans’ signing of Pro Bowl DE Jadeveon Clowney
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cole Thompson, Texans Wire | USA TODAY Network
