As Clowney contract situation lingers, ‘I can’t wait til he gets paid’
Jadeveon Clowney didn’t want to talk about his current contract situation with the Houston Texans, but that didn’t stop another former South Carolina player from weighing in on it.
“I can’t wait until he gets paid,” said former Gamecock running Mike Davis, who just signed a two-year, $6 million free-agent deal with the Chicago Bears. “My position is down here and his is way up there. We just saw Demarcus Lawrence sign for $21 million a year, but I am sure he will get that, if not more.”
Last month, the Texans put the franchise tag on the former Gamecock with the intention of working out a long-term deal. But no new deal has been announced. The two sides have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal. If none is reached, Clowney would play for the franchise amount, which is either $15.4 (linebacker) or $17.1 million (defensive end) depending on which position the team pays him as.
Clowney had 47 tackles and nine sacks in 2018 and 18.5 sacks over the past two seasons.
Clowney didn’t take questions about negotiations when he spoke with media Saturday at D.J. Swearinger’s celebrity basketball game, but he addressed the situation a few months ago after the season ended.
“I promise to the Texans and whoever else is watching that I’m going to be a much better, improved player next season,” Clowney told reporters in January. “I haven’t been thinking about a contract. If I come back and play well like I know I’m going to, a contract will take care of itself. I’m going to work on my craft and work on my game. That’s what I’m worrying about.”
Clowney was a surprise addition to Swearinger’s third annual game held at the Carolina Volleyball Center. He played in it the first year but not last season. The All-Pro had a great time at the event, signing autographs and taking pictures. He even took the microphone and did some play-by-play during the game.
Clowney also was laughing it up with fellow Rock Hill natives Tori Gurley and Stephon Gilmore. Gurley, who is four years older, coached both at the YMCA.
“I remember when Jadeveon couldn’t swim and he couldn’t tie his shoes when he was little. He would run around with his shoelaces all over the place,” said Gurley, who is now an analyst for NFL Network. “I’m happy for him and Stephon and proud of the men they have become. They have gone on to do phenomenal things.”
Clowney spent a few minutes in pre-game with Gamecocks coach Will Muschamp. He didn’t attend Saturday’s USC spring game but talked about the program and how much he is looking forward to taking a tour of USC football’s new operation building.
Clowney also stressed the importance of giving back and getting to attend events like Swearinger’s game.
“People did the same for us and these kids look up to us. For him to do a game like this and give back, it is great,” Clowney said. “Good to see some of these old guys. I haven’t seen some of these guys in so long. I just want to make sure I stay connected to these guys. We all have gone our separate ways in life, but it is always fun to get back together.”
This story was originally published April 7, 2019 at 1:10 PM.