Three minutes before the Houston Texans made the first selection in the 2014 NFL draft, Jadeveon Clowney, the South Carolina All-American defensive end, got the call.
“I’m feeling overwhelmed,” Clowney said after becoming the No. 1 pick. “I’m feeling great right now. It’s just a blessing, man. I appreciate it. I’m just glad to be a part of the Houston Texans.”
Clowney said now that he’s in the fold, the work begins. The only questions about his play by some was his effort.
“I think I have a lot to prove to people,” Clowney said. “That’s what I’m looking forward to, proving a lot of people wrong. I’m just ready to get down and get going with the Houston Texans.”
The Texans considered trading the top pick, and remained open to the prospect throughout the process.
“At the end of the day, that never materialized,” general manager Rick Smith said. “We always felt very confident in the selection. And so we were very bullish in what we were asking for because we felt so good about the pick.”
Smith said the Texans are unconcerned about Clowney’s desire. He was worked out by strength coach Craig Fitzgerald.
“Did he play with his hair on fire every single snap? No,” Smith said. “But do we worry about his work ethic? We don’t at all. We think this guy will come in … he’s ready to work. After the selection, he talked about wanting to come in and work. This guy’s motivated. He’s extremely motivated. He wants to be great.”
In other selections, Bradley Roby, the talented defensive back from Peachtree Ridge High School outside of Atlanta, went to the Denver Broncos with the 31st pick. Teddy Bridgewater, once considered the top quarterback in the draft, was chosen as the last player in the first round by the Minnesota Vikings.
Meanwhile, Johnny Menziel, the former Heisman Trophy winner, dropped to No. 22 to the Cleveland Browns.
