Once expected to be one of the most coveted players in free agency, edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney has not received the interest he hoped for. Now weighing his future, the former Seattle Seahawks star reportedly isn’t ready to decide on where he’ll sign, per ESPN’s Josina Anderson.
The Seahawks signed defensive end Benson Mayowa to a one-year, $3 million deal on Wednesday. The organization, sensing Clowney wasn’t nearing a decision, wanted to bolster their depth on the defensive line and added Mayowa. The 28-year-old recorded a career-high seven sacks this past season with 10 quarterback hits and five tackles for loss.
Clowney entered free agency seeking $20 million per season, with many expecting the New York Giants and Indianapolis Colts to pursue him. After the Colts traded for and signed All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and the Giants signed cornerback James Bradberry, the market for Clowney started dwindling.
The Seahawks could still reportedly make the cap space to sign Clowney. The former No. 1 overall pick has already reportedly lowered his asking price and could take a short-term deal to try and rebuild his value.
After recording nine sacks in consecutive seasons with the Houston Texans, Clowney struggled to stay healthy and produce after being traded to the Seahawks before the 2019 season. He finished with only three sacks and 13 quarterback hits in 13 games.
Because the NFL shut down all team facilities and NFL-related physicals have been stopped, he also doesn’t have the opportunity to prove he is healthy. Ultimately, Clowney might need to settle for far less than he was hoping for and hope he can test free agency again coming off a better season.