Houston Texans linebacker Jadeveon Clowney appeared in only seven NFL games his rookie season before being placed on injured reserve with a knee injury that eventually required microfracture surgery.
While reports have swirled that Clowney may never return to the physical form prior to the injury, putting his NFL future in doubt, a new report has emerged that could put those fears to bed.
"I spoke to sources inside the Texans' front office about this story, and they do not feel concerned about Clowney's injury," writes Charlie Campbell of Walter Football. "The Texans confidently believe that Clowney will recover and be the player he was expected to be when they draft him. A source told me, "We fully expect him to return and be an impactful player." At the EastWest Shrine and Senior Bowl, Texans' officials were confident that "JD" would be fine and end up being a good player."
Clowney entered the NFL draft process as one of the most highly touted prospects in years thanks to his elite combination of size, speed and athleticism.
While Clowney's rookie season was almost entirely lost and doubt remains about his ability to become a contributing, let alone high-caliber player worthy of his first-overall pedigree, Campbell reports that sources he spoke with in the Texans organization believe that Clowney has been able to block out the negativity and focus his energy and efforts on his return to the field.
"Houston doesn't mind the hate and doubt that is constantly coming about Clowney. It has been a source of motivation for him, and they say that Clowney has been diligent in his rehab. While agents and other team officials might be whispering doubts, the Texans are confident that Clowney will come back and make an impact."
The Texans received little in the way of impact from all of their selections in last year's NFL draft, so Clowney won't be alone in his attempt to erase doubts about his NFL future once next season rolls around.
