There has been much talk this offseason about the Texans and Jadeveon Clowney agreeing to a long-term deal before his rookie contract runs up after next season. Texans general manager Brian Gaine somewhat affirmed those reports Friday.
“I won’t discuss our negotiations publicly, but I’m optimistic that something can be done,” Houston general manager Brian Gaine said Friday at the team’s pre-draft press conference, per Sarah Barshop of ESPN.
The Texans took Clowney with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 draft and he’s due to make $12 million next season as part of his fifth-year option. Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reported earlier this month that the deal was still viewed as an “eventuallity,” though it’s not imminent.
“[I like his] height, weight, [and] speed,” Gaine continued. “The production, the performance, the pass-rush ability. The guy’s a disruptive player. He plays the run well. So we’re doing our best to fortify our nucleus of players, and we’d like him to be a part of it.”
Here’s more from around the AFC:
- Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was absent from the team’s optional workouts last week. He said he doesn’t plan to attend next weeks’ voluntary workouts either, explaining his reasoning in one of the odder press conferences you’ll see. “I’ve got dirt-biking skills to work on,” said Gronkowski at a presser prior to the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship at Gillette Stadium, via Phil Perry of NBC Sports Washington. Gronkowski, who’s contemplated retirement this offseason, also gave vague answers on if he’ll be back at all next season.
- Former Colts head coach Chuck Pagano plans to take this season off from coaching and work as a consultant for the NFL, according to Troy Renck of Denver 7, ABC. Pagano was fired this offseason after the Colts missed the playoffs for a third straight season. Frank Reich has since been hired as the team’s head coach.
- Earlier Saturday, the Jets officially announced that they’ve picked up the fifth-year option on defensive lineman Leonard Williams.
Gronk wants to get paid. Pats listen to the man or this dynasty can die real fast.
Gronk was the highest paid TE twice now…he hasn’t cashed a game check yet. I don’t think it is the money. He is playing with the media.
I think he wants out of New England. He sees the writing on the wall, the dynasty is DONE.