Report: Jadeveon Clowney willing to sit out regular season games

The Houston Texans appear to have alienated Jadeveon Clowney with their recent actions, and it may mean he misses some regular season action.

According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, Clowney is not happy that the Texans have put him out there in trade talks, especially when he hasn’t even been approached with overtures about a long-term contract. The pass-rusher has subsequently told those close to him he is willing to sit out regular season games until he is confident he is in the right situation.

From @NFLTotalAccess: There’s no guarantee Jadeveon Clowney will be back with the #Texans or some other team by Week 1. He’s told several people he‘s not afraid to miss games as he sorts out his future and makes sure he holds the leverage in the meantime by not signing the tag. pic.twitter.com/nbAfOE4H44

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 28, 2019

Clowney cannot sign a long-term contract this year after he failed to come to an agreement with the team ahead of July’s deadline. He also cannot be traded until he signs his tender, which he has refused to do. That gives Clowney plenty of leverage, particularly when it comes to where he can be dealt to. He’s willing to exercise that leverage, too, and clearly has some preferences in the trade department.

Clowney collected nine sacks in 15 games last season. At 26, he’s still likely to be a force for years to come.