Nov 23, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) in action against the Cincinnati Bengals at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jadeveon Clowney
Jadeveon Clowney is the epitome of the future of the Texans’ defense. As the top overall pick in the NFL draft last year, it was important for him to have a big first year. Unfortunately, things didn’t go according to plan, and he spent most of the season out with a knee injury.
Despite this, Clowney and the Texans are incredibly optimistic about his rehab. Clowney has reported that he feels like things are all going according to plan. He has yet to really put a timetable on things, and declines comment when asked if he’ll be on the field for 2015, but we can be hopeful.
Bill O’Brien is very straightforward when speaking about Clowney and his injury.
"Like I tell him, it’ll all come down to what he does when he puts the pads on… Can he take care of his body? There’s no question about his ability to affect the game. He’s a hell of a player, but he’s got to be out there."
The obvious first step is getting Clowney in practice, which the Texans hope to have happen at some point during training camp. The important part with this injury, and most injuries, is knowing just the right time to bring a player back. Too soon, and they could re-injure themselves. Too late, and their abilities will have been wasted.
If Clowney is brought back at the correct time, he has the potential to have a huge impact on making the Texans’ defense great.
Next: 4. J.J. Watt