Jadeveon Clowney was the biggest name in 2020 free agency, but it’s almost August and he hasn’t signed anywhere. Originally, the Browns, Seahawks, and Titans were thought to be the top 3 teams, but only one of those teams remains.
The Browns restructured Olivier Vernon’s contract and extended Myles Garrett. The Seahawks traded a behemoth of picks for Jamal Adams and will likely extend him to a record-setting deal. In the midst of all this chaos, the Raiders snuck in and offered him a contract.
So, why would Clowney choose the 7-9 Raiders over the Titans who made an AFC Championship appearance in 2019? Clowney wants fame.
If Clowney actually wanted to chase a ring, then he’d take a minimum contract on the Chiefs, Ravens, Bucs, Niners, or even return to Seattle. But on all those teams, he’s not the face of the franchise. Before Mack left the Raiders, he was the captain of the defense, sealing victories for Carr on final-play strip-sacks. Clowney can be that guy.
The NFL entered Las Vegas and Allegiant Stadium is now the most spectacular venue in the league. Add Clowney to that equation and he’d become a modern-day star on the Las Vegas strip. He’s excellent against the run and has freakish athleticism that helps him rush the passer. Coming off a lackluster season, Clowney could finally prove that he was worthy of being the number one overall pick.
Why should Jon Gruden and Mayock pay him if they weren’t gonna pay, Mack? Clowney will be a lot cheaper than Mack, with slightly less production. The Raiders also have to play Mahomes twice a year. Mahomes struggled against the Niners explosive defensive line in the first 3 quarters of the Super Bowl and the Raiders will have to try and match that pressure if they want to contain the half-a-billion dollar man.
Gruden and Mayock should create cap space to sign Clowney if they want any chance of becoming a contender.
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