Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones revealed last Sunday, following the team’s win over the New York Giants, that the franchise had signed veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney. The announcement came just days after the former No. 1 overall pick was arrested in his home state of South Carolina.
According to WSOCTV.com, Clowney was taken into custody on September 12 in York County. He was charged with failure to identify and trespassing, both classified as misdemeanors.
The report stated that Clowney attempted to park in a lot on Constitution Boulevard that was closed. Despite being informed he could not park there, the 32-year-old proceeded to do so anyway.
A native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Clowney spent last season with the Carolina Panthers. The 6-foot-5 pass rusher, a three-time Pro Bowl selection (2016–18), was released by Carolina in May. While he received interest from several teams, no deal came together until Dallas signed him on September 14.
Clowney joined the Cowboys for practice immediately and could suit up as early as this Sunday against the Chicago Bears. If he does, Dallas will become the seventh NFL team he has played for, and his fourth in as many years.
Statistically, Clowney remains a disruptive presence. In 2024, he recorded 11 QB hits, 9 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks across 14 games. Pro Football Focus ranked him 41st among edge rushers in total pressures (44) and 20th in pass-rush win rate (14.9 percent). Against the run, his impact was less notable, placing 54th in run-defense grade (63.4) and 57th in stop rate (5.7 percent).
The Cowboys may need his versatility immediately. Heading into Week 3, Dallas’ defense ranks fourth in pressure rate (28.2 percent) but has struggled against the run, giving up the 10th-most rushing yards per game (121.0). The team also sits 20th in ESPN’s pass-rush win rate (33 percent).
Because the charges are misdemeanors, Clowney is not expected to face NFL discipline that would prevent him from taking the field.
