Free agent Jadeveon Clowney visited the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday for a physical and meeting amid Micah Parsons’ trade. No contract yet—but here’s what Clowney offers, why Dallas is interested, and what to watch next.
What’s the News: Clowney’s Visit to the Cowboys
- Reports from multiple outlets (e.g. Reuters) indicate that free agent edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney visited the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday to undergo a physical and meet with the defense.
- As of now, there is no contract signed. Clowney left the facility without an agreement.
- Cowboys’ head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed the visit, emphasizing that Dallas is “evaluating” and seeing if there is a “good fit.”
Why the Cowboys Are Exploring Clowney
- Micah Parsons was traded away to the Green Bay Packers in a blockbuster deal, leaving a big hole in Dallas’s pass rush. Clowney is being considered as a veteran option to bolster the pass-rush and run defense.
- Clowney has a reputation for being good both against the pass and in defending the run; his length, experience, and past disruptive plays make him attractive for a Dallas defensive line that showed weaknesses in certain spots during their season opener.
- Cowboys have cap space and need to patch up defensive depth. Adding Clowney could be a lower cost, shorter-term solution compared to drafting or making big trades.
Clowney’s Career Recap & Recent Performance
- Clowney was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. Over his career he has moved through several teams: Texans, Seahawks, Titans, Browns, Ravens, Panthers.
- In 2024, with the Carolina Panthers, Clowney had 46 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 11 QB hits, and 9 tackles for loss in 14 starts. He was released by the Panthers in May 2025.
- His fuller statline over about 140 games: ~58 sacks, 139 QB hits, 15 forced fumbles, over 400 tackles. Not elite numbers recently, but still showing flashes of utility.
Key Quotes & Statements from Cowboys Staff
- Coach Brian Schottenheimer said: “Just evaluating. He’s still got a few more things to do with us, and then we’ll circle up … see if it makes sense for us.” Emphasizing that it’s not a done deal.
- Schottenheimer also noted personal history — he and Clowney overlapped in Seattle in 2019, giving some familiarity.
- Schottenheimer described Clowney as “a violent player that plays the game the right way … problems he can create in run and pass.” Respectful but cautious.
Challenges & “Why It Might Not Happen”
- Though the Cowboys are interested, multiple reports suggest Clowney probably won’t end up signing with them after this visit. Insiders like Clarence Hill Jr. note early word is “probably not going to” sign.
- Age and recent production are concerns. While 32 is not prohibitively old, edge rushers often decline faster, especially those who rely on physical traits more than technique. Inconsistent recent sacks totals are a factor.
- The cap considerations, scheme fit, and impact on younger edge rushers in the Cowboys’ rotation are also relevant. If Clowney’s offer is large, it could crowd out roster spots or financial flexibility.
[Note: Images are collected from Instagram]
What Clowney Could Offer If Signed
- Depth: Provide rotational edge rusher serving both pass-rush and run-defense duties, alleviating pressure off starters.
- Veteran presence: Leadership, experience in high-stakes games, and someone who knows how to get after quarterbacks.
- Matchups & situational use: Clowney might not be a 16-sack guy every season anymore, but in certain packages (short yard, goal line, inside stunts) he could contribute.
- Boosting Cowboys’ edge/defensive tackle pairing: Especially after Parsons’ departure, Clowney could stabilize some of the new/young pass rushers in the rotation.
Impact on Cowboys’ Defensive Depth Chart
- Current options: After Parsons trade, Cowboys have Sam Williams, Marshawn Kneeland, Dante Fowler, rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku and others. Clowney would compete with that group for edge snaps.
- Run defense: Cowboys allowed significant rushing yardage in the first half of their opener vs. Eagles; Clowney’s run-defense ability could help shore up that weak spot.
How This Fits Into Cowboys’ Off-Season Moves
- Big move: Trading Micah Parsons to the Packers, getting Kenny Clark and two first-round picks. That was a major shift. Clowney is perceived as one possible plug, not a replacement in that magnitude.
- Cowboys are showing cautious behavior—they’re evaluating Clowney, having him take a physical, but not jumping in rush. That reflects their approach to depth and managing cap and roster risk.
Breaking: Free agent edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney is in Dallas today to meet with the #Cowboys, per league source. pic.twitter.com/VeDYGz3kES
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 10, 2025
What Fans & Analysts Are Saying
- Some fans are excited: Clowney in Dallas adds intrigue, especially in the NFC East; he is a veteran who could be useful immediately.
- Others are skeptical: Given his recent production, age, and the fact that he left without a contract, might be better to invest in younger edge rushers long-term.
- Analysts note that even just a short-term deal might make sense: low risk, possible upside, especially for early downs or special situations.
What’s Next: Timeline & Possibilities
- The Cowboys may decide quickly whether to sign him before their game vs the New York Giants (Week 2). If they want added pass rush, action could come soon.
- Clowney must pass his physical and impress in meetings. If he leaves without an agreement (as he did Wednesday), that doesn’t end things—it just buys time.
- Even if Dallas passes, Clowney could get interest from other teams needing edge depth, especially after Week 1 injuries or weak performances.