Jadeveon Clowney went into the offseason seeking a market-setting contract with plenty of NFL teams interested in him. Now with free agency set to begin, Clowney has reportedly not found the market to be quite as warm as he hoped.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Clowney’s early exploration during the legal tampering period hasn’t generated the interest he expected. Now the 27-year-old edge rusher might have to return to the Seattle Seahawks if their offer ultimately becomes his best option available.
Clowney can be a disruptive force off the edge when he’s healthy. We saw that on Monday Night Football, when he recorded five quarterback hits, one sack and returned a fumble recovery for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. But he also only recorded three sacks in 13 games this past season and injuries have often limited or sidelined him.
The Indianapolis Colts were expected to pursue him. However, the blockbuster trade for defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and the record-breaking deal they gave him likely puts Clowney out of their price range.
If the market doesn’t improve for Clowney, the Seahawks would certainly be happy to welcome him back. If he can stay healthy for an entire season, Clowney would be an incredible piece for the defense and could deliver more iconic performances like the one we saw on MNF.