Texans GM: We expect Clowney to be major contributor

A lot has changed for Jadeveon Clowney, who went from can't-miss No. 1 overall pick to injury-riddled question mark in the space of one year.

Clowney is currently recovering from microfracture knee surgery, a procedure that has put his ceiling as once-in-a-generation talent in question. Clowney said last month he's been "very encouraged" by his rehab process. Texans general manager Rick Smith offered a similarly positive outlook during a meeting with reporters on Tuesday.

"Everything that I've seen this offseason, I've been encouraged and impressed with," Smith said, according to the Houston Chronicle. "He's doing well. All the reports that I've gotten are very positive. And, yes, we expect that he will be a major contributor to our football team this year."

The Texans remain confident Clowney will be ready to go by Week 1. If Clowney can regain his old form, the potential of a dominant 1-2 combination with J.J. Watt remains.

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