Jadeveon Clowney once looked like a supreme NFL draft prospect and surefire top pick, but there are now some mixed feelings about him.
Most people agree that he has absurd talent as a defensive lineman, but the concerns about his work ethic are troubling to many.
NJ.com has been having three different NFL scouts/personnel executives give some evaluations on players leading up to the draft, and on Sunday they reviewed the defensive linemen. One of the three execs was critical of Clowney.
“He’s spoiled, and he’s lazy,’’ the NFC personnel man told NJ.com. “He’s never worked hard a day in his life, now all of a sudden you’re going to give him a bunch of money and expect him to work hard. I don’t see it.”
“Oh, he’s going to be a high pick,’’ the personnel man said. “Some team will fall in love with him. But wait and see, just wait and see. I just don’t think you can count on him. I’m betting the under on him.’’
Keep in mind that the same evaluator had a negative overall outlook of the position, calling it the “worst group” he’s seen in a long time. So maybe he was just down on everyone as a whole. But his opinion on Clowney is not exactly unique.
We’ve heard some compare Clowney to Randy Moss in terms of the talent but questionable work ethic/motivation. Even Clowney’s South Carolina coach, Steve Spurrier, describe his former player’s work ethic as only “OK.” That was not a good sign.
Some people may view the criticisms as unfair, but when this many people start expressing the same concerns, you have to figure there’s a good reason for it. The warning signs are definitely there.
