Jadeveon Clowney Bio
Jadeveon Davarus Clowney is an American professional football defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the South Carolina Gamecocks, winning the Ted Hendricks Award in 2012. Clowney was selected first overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, where he spent five seasons. During his tenure, he was named to three Pro Bowls and received a second-team All-Pro honor. After short stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans, he had successful seasons with the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens before joining the Cowboys in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Jadeveon Clowney was born on February 14, 1993, in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He attended South Pointe High School, where he played for the Stallions high school football team. Clowney was already 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighed 200 pounds as a freshman in 2007, playing running back and defensive end for the junior varsity team. By his sophomore year, he became a permanent fixture at defensive end, helping his team achieve a perfect 15-0 season and a state championship title. Despite playing with a bone spur in his foot, Clowney finished that season with 17 sacks.
In his senior season, Clowney tallied 162 tackles, 29.5 sacks, and 11 forced fumbles, leading South Pointe to a 13-2 record and a state finals appearance. He was named South Carolina’s Mr. Football in 2010. Clowney’s impressive high school career garnered him attention from major college programs, and he was widely regarded as the top recruit in the nation.
Path to American Football
Clowney’s high school success led him to the University of South Carolina, where he played for the Gamecocks from 2011 to 2013 under head coach Steve Spurrier. As a true freshman, he started all 12 games and was named SEC Freshman of the Year. In his sophomore season, he set the school record for sacks with 13 and was awarded the Ted Hendricks Award as the nation’s best defensive end. Clowney’s junior year was marred by injuries, but he still earned first-team All-SEC honors. After the 2013 season, he declared for the NFL Draft.
Jadeveon Clowney Career
Early Career (2014–2018)
Jadeveon Clowney was selected first overall by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract worth $22.2725 million, which included a $14.5185 million signing bonus. Clowney made his professional debut in the preseason but suffered a knee injury that limited his rookie season to just four games. In 2015, he returned to the field and recorded his first regular-season sack against the Miami Dolphins. Clowney’s breakout year came in 2016 when he was named to his first Pro Bowl and earned second-team All-Pro honors.
Breakthrough (2016–2018)
Clowney’s performance continued to impress, as he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2017 and 2018. He recorded significant statistics, including nine sacks in the 2018 season. His ability to impact games on both defense and special teams solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top defensive players.
Notable Works and Milestones
Clowney’s signature work includes his standout performances during the Pro Bowl seasons and his pivotal role in the Texans’ defense. He has received numerous accolades, including the Ted Hendricks Award and multiple Pro Bowl selections.
Jadeveon Clowney Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jadeveon Clowney has received several nominations for prestigious awards, including the Chuck Bednarik Award and the Lombardi Award, showcasing his impact on the field.
Jadeveon Clowney Awards Won
Jadeveon Clowney has won several awards, including the SEC Freshman of the Year in 2011, the Ted Hendricks Award in 2012, and has been named to the Pro Bowl three times from 2016 to 2018.
Jadeveon Clowney Family
Jadeveon Clowney was raised by his mother, Josenna Clowney, who has worked at the Frito-Lay plant in Charlotte, North Carolina, since 1994. His father, David Morgan, was incarcerated for a significant portion of Clowney’s childhood. Clowney’s family background has shaped his perspective and drive in his professional career.
Personal Life
Clowney’s personal life has been marked by challenges, including his father’s incarceration. He has faced scrutiny in the media, including a recent arrest in September 2025 for misdemeanor trespassing. Despite these challenges, Clowney continues to focus on his football career and personal growth.
