Jadeveon Clowney signs with Houston Texans, citing team fit over salary

Pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney has agreed to rejoin the Houston Texans, the team that selected him first overall in the 2014 draft. The 33-year-old said the move was motivated by the club’s competitiveness and his desire to contribute, not by salary.

"I felt like they got a good team and I can help contribute. It was a really easy decision. It wasn't about the money," Clowney told the Houston Chronicle.

Clowney, who spent his first five seasons with Houston and earned three Pro Bowl selections there, was traded to Seattle in 2019 and subsequently played for six other teams, including Tennessee, Cleveland, Baltimore, Carolina and Dallas. Over 12 seasons he has recorded 66.5 sacks and appeared in four playoff teams, reaching a conference championship with Baltimore in 2023.

He described the decision as a family one and emphasized his growth since leaving Houston.

"I've grown up and learned the game a lot more since leaving. I feel like I can help the younger guys. I've learned how to lead and what it takes to get to a Super Bowl," he said.

Clowney will join a Texans defense already featuring edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, providing additional depth on the line. He expressed confidence that the team can contend for a championship.

"I just know this team is good enough to go, and I can help. We've got to get to work and stay locked in," he added.