The Seattle Seahawks have been linked to Jadeveon Clowney for a few days now, and it appears they’re on the verge of acquiring the Texans pass rusher. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Seahawks are “deep in talks” with Houston about trading for Clowney.
Clowney has reportedly told people that he prefers to play in Seattle and will sign the franchise tender to clear a trade to the Seahawks.
Clowney was franchise tagged by the Texans this offseason but has not participated in any team activities. He skipped all of camp and the preseason and has yet to report to the team. In order for a trade to occur, Clowney has to first sign the franchise tender. So essentially, he can block a trade by refusing to sign it.
Clowney had nine sacks last season and 9.5 the year before, making the Pro Bowl in each of the past three seasons. In his career, he has 29 sacks, 64 tackles for loss and 67 quarterback hits.
Injuries were a concern early on after he was the first overall pick in 2014, but he’s missed only six games in the last four seasons. He would be a significant boost to the Seahawks’ front seven, especially after the team traded Frank Clark to the Chiefs.
Because he must play the 2019 season on the franchise tag, Clowney will be a free agent next offseason. The Texans or any team that trades for him cannot sign him to an extension until the end of the season.
