Houston Texans' coach Bill O'Brien said that top overall pick Jadeveon Clowney was "50/50" when asked earlier this week about the rookie's chances of returning to game action on Monday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers, ESPN reported.
However, O'Brien did not give any other updates to Clowney's status on Wednesday.
"Coach Bill O'Brien offered no new information on linebacker Jadeveon Clowney's chances of returning to the lineup against the Steelers Monday night," John McClain of the Houston Chronicle wrote.
"When asked if he had an update on the rookie's status, O'Brien replied, 'No.' And, when asked what Clowney had to show him to prove he's ready to return to the field, O'Brien said, 'That's between him and me.'"
Clowney underwent arthroscopic knee surgery after suffering a knee injury early in Week 1 against the Washington Redskins. The initial prognosis pegged him to miss 4-6 weeks. Monday will be exactly six weeks since Clowney's surgery.
If Clowney does suit up, it is likely that the Texans will ease him back into the lineup slowly. He and Whitney Mercilus would most likely split snaps at outside linebacker.
Clowney was one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory coming out of South Carolina. Houston is anxious to finally see their talented rookie on the field again.
The Texans are currently second in the AFC South behind the Indianapolis Colts at 3-3.
