Jadeveon Clowney Already Building A Bad Reputation

Sep 7, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) during the game against the Washington Redskins at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The 2014 rookie class is making a considerable impact already in the NFL.  Yet that success does not include Jadeveon Clowney, which is worrisome.  Keep in mind many experts considered the South Carolina product arguably the most talented defensive player to come out of college in at least a decade.  That and the notion that he’s the #1 overall pick certainly carries a lot of pressure with it.  Pressure that appears to already be getting the young pass rusher in hot water.

Houston Texans still waiting on him

In spite of his obvious talent Clowney is beginning to become labeled with a series of major red flags.  The first of course was regarding his work ethic.  Several sources including his own coach believed he didn’t work hard enough despite his clear physical gifts.  However, the bigger problem that is creating a buzz about his future in the NFL is in regards to his health.  Clowney dealt with a series of nagging problems with his lower extremities in college, among them being foot and knee ailments that hampered his play or kept him out of games.

Four weeks into the 2014 season and it’s still happening.  After a brief appearance at the start of the season he has been out ever since, receiving arthroscopic surgery to repair his knee.  As of recent reports he’s targeting October 20th as his return date with the Houston Texans and head coach Bill O’Brien insists that is on the pace set by team doctors.

Either way it doesn’t erase the original problem.  Jadeveon Clowney may be absurdely talented, but his ongoing problems staying health is beginning to push him in the much-dreaded bust territory.