Jadeveon Clowney, former No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, has reportedly turned down a massive offer from the Cleveland Browns. The Dawg Pound has notably been the most aggressive team with Clowney and have “offered the most money to date,” according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Clowney, now still in his prime at 27, remains the biggest name/talent on the free-agent market. Injury risk could be one issue that he hasn’t come to terms with a franchise, as the stout defensive end is recovering from core muscle surgery this past offseason.
Jadaveon had this to say about his recent injury recovery —
“I don’t know if people think I’m hurt because of what I went through because of the core or because of previous years. I’m ready, I’ll be ready to go whenever the time comes. Whoever I sign with will get the best version of me.”
According to a recent report from Adam Schefter, the Browns’ offer would be very close to his $21 million-per-year target, having already turned down offers from the Dolphins and Seahawks (his former team) worth $18.5 million per year and $17 million per year, respectively. He is seeking a contract that would put his salary in the same camp as edge rushers DeMarcus Lawrence and Khalil Mack.
Schefter goes on to say —
“Why hasn’t Clowney signed with the Browns? I don’t know. Is that not wanting to be in that city? Is that a lack of belief in the organization? I don’t know what it is. But there’s no doubt that Cleveland has offered the most money to date. For whatever reason, he has not been willing to take it so far. That doesn’t mean it couldn’t change, but it hasn’t changed just yet.”
It doesn’t seem like it’s ALL about money for the former Texans and Seahawks star, but a very pinpointed mix of potential playoff success paired with guaranteed cash.
