With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 10, Houston Texans edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney has emerged as a potential trade candidate. The 33-year-old former No. 1 overall pick has played only 37% of defensive snaps this season, recording 1.5 sacks, two tackles for loss, and four quarterback hits. Despite modest counting stats, his 13.0% pressure rate ranks 58th among 262 qualifiers, per Tru Media.
Potential Trade Scenarios
San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers could acquire Clowney and a 2027 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2028 sixth-round pick. San Francisco ranks 21st in pressure rate and has dealt with defensive line injuries, making a rotational edge rusher a logical addition ahead of a playoff push.
Kansas City Chiefs: Kansas City would send a 2027 sixth-round pick (acquired from the 49ers) for Clowney and a 2027 seventh-rounder. While the Chiefs' primary need is at wide receiver, their pass rush depth behind George Karlaftis is thin, with backups combining for just 42 pressures per Pro Football Focus.
Dallas Cowboys: A reunion with Clowney, who posted 8.5 sacks for Dallas in 2023, would cost a 2028 sixth-round pick. The Cowboys are 3-5 but owner Jerry Jones often buys at the deadline; the team's pass rush has struggled, and scheme-fit concerns that prevented a re-signing last offseason may be outweighed by current needs.
New York Giants: New York, leading the NFC East, could trade a 2027 sixth-round pick (from Jacksonville) for Clowney and a 2027 seventh-rounder. With Brian Burns out for the year, the Giants rank 31st in pressure rate and could use a low-cost veteran to complement Abdul Carter and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
In each scenario, the Texans would likely receive only a late-round pick or pick swap, reflecting Clowney's age and limited 2024 production. Houston holds a 2027 seventh-round pick incoming from the Los Angeles Chargers, which serves as the outgoing asset in these mock deals.
