HOUSTON -- Using the franchise tag on defensive end/outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney was an easy decision for the Houston Texans, who should try to sign the pass-rusher to a long-term deal before the July 15 deadline.
Tagging Clowney was inevitable after he entered last season without a contract extension but after two seasons of avoiding serious injuries and playing at a high level, Clowney has proven himself worthy of an extension.
Clowney entered 2018 with a chip on his shoulder after not being given a long-term deal. The Texans have long operated by the rule of giving veteran players an extension entering the final year of their contracts, as they did recently with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins.