Jaguars named top-landing spot for former $3 million Cowboys starter

The Jacksonville Jaguars could surely benefit from shoring up their pass-rushing/run-stuffing chops.

Although Jacksonville was elite in those two categories a season ago, they’ve struggled to retain key contributors from that playoff-bound squad. In CBS Sports’ Zachary Pereles opinion, signing a former Cowboys defensive starter could do wonders for the franchise.

"The Jaguars have had a difficult offseason, losing Devin Lloyd and Trevis Etienne Jr. in free agency and having a baffling draft thereafter,” Pereles wrote Wednesday. 

“The offensive line could use an upgrade or two, even after the Emmanuel Pregnon selection, but Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker desperately need some help. (Jadavaeon) Clowney continues to be productive against the run and the pass.”

After getting released by the Carolina Panthers during the 2025 offseason, Clowney signed a one-year deal with the Cowboys in September. The versatile edge rusher was a high-level disruptor during his lone campaign with Dallas, accumulating 41 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 13 contests. 

While Clowney’s overall production as a pro (450 tackles, 66.5 sacks, and 16 forced fumbles in 153 contests with the Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Cowboys) doesn’t suggest he’s lived up the billing as a former No. 1 overall pick, he’s a valuable win-now defensive piece that should be on Jacksonville’s radar moving forward.

More NFL: 

• Giants closing in on ex-Texans $2 million starter, Dexter Lawrence replacement
• Cowboys predicted to cut ties with George Pickens in favor of declining $10 million Bills WR
• Eagles named top landing spot for former Cowboys $21 million starter