Jadeveon Clowney rumors: 5 best fits in NFL free agency
3. San Francisco 49ers
DeForest Buckner has matured into a terrific edge rusher for the ‘Niners, but he needs some support. Neither Arik Armstead or Solomon Thomas is giving him the help he needs. Their mediocrity is a big reason San Francisco finished 22nd in the NFL in sacks last season.
Obviously, bringing Clowney to town would drastically change how opposing offenses scheme against the 49ers defense. Right now, they have the ability to double team Buckner on every passing down. Lining Clowney up on the other edge would be huge for this defense.
The 49ers can also sell Clowney on how ready they are to emerge as legitimate contenders in the NFC West. They’ll get a healthy Jimmy Garoppolo back next season and a high draft pick. They could use that on a rookie edge rusher, but that’s always a risk.
The biggest obstacle to Clowney moving to San Francisco will be the team’s need to clear cap space to make the move. It’s not impossible, but it might require the 49ers to give up on a few other positions of need. Signing a disruptive force like Clowney might be worth the sacrifice though. Keep an eye on San Francisco if the Texans let their talented edge rusher go.