Texans take Clowney with the first pick of the draft, Manziel slips to 22.
The Houston Texans selected former South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney with the No.1 overall pick of the NFL Draft 2014.
Clowney appeared confident in the build-up to the process in New York after smiling and joking with reporters as he was insistent that the Texans wouldn’t pass up on him.
However, he was only sure that Houston would take him with the No.1 overall pick with just three minutes before their clock expired, and the tears ultimately followed as a dream came true for the young star.
“I’m feeling overwhelmed,” Clowney said. “I’m feeling great right now. It’s just a blessing, man. I appreciate it. I’m just glad to be a part of the Houston Texans.”
Despite the recognition of being selected with the first overall pick, Clowney insisted that he still has plenty to prove and wants to silence his doubters as he looks to help improve a Texans team that finished last season with a 14-game losing streak.
Some have questioned Clowney’s work ethic despite his natural athleticism, but it is understood that the Texans were not one of those teams, and they will look ahead to using him with JJ Watt in what is already being billed as a significant partnership.
The former South Carolina star shattered the record for sacks after notching 13 in 2012, while his 24 career sacks in three seasons rank third all time for the school and he left college ranked fifth for forced fumbles and tackles for loss.
Clowney revealed that he spoke with Watt after the Texans made their move, with his new team-mate insisting that he will be there to help him improve his game and act like a mentor.
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