The Cleveland Browns are progressing in talks on a deal with free agent pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, and there is optimism that an agreement could be completed soon, sources tell ESPN’s Dianna Russini.
Clowney visited with the Browns last month, sources told ESPN, but left Cleveland without a deal. The former No. 1 overall draft pick reportedly was set to travel to Cleveland again Monday.
The Browns also pursued Clowney last offseason, but the three-time Pro Bowler reportedly rejected Cleveland’s multi-year contract offer and ultimately signed a one-year, $13 million deal with the Tennessee Titans.
Clowney, 28, struggled in 2020 with Tennessee, finishing with 19 tackles and zero sacks in eight games before suffering a season-ending knee injury in November. He underwent surgery in December and is expected to be at full health for the start of the 2021 season.
The Browns would mark the fourth team in as many seasons for Clowney, who spent his first five seasons with the Texans before playing for the Seahawks in 2019. He would join a Browns pass-rushing corps that features All-Pro Myles Garrett and newly acquired Takkarist McKinley.
Clowney has posted 255 tackles (75 for a loss), 86 quarterback hits and 32 sacks in his seven seasons. Over his career, he has dealt with various knee injuries, in addition to groin, elbow, back and Lisfranc injuries.