Cowboys' Jadeveon Clowney outlines plan for 2026 NFL free agency

In need of help on the edge after trading away Micah Parsons, the Dallas Cowboys signed veteran free agent Jadeveon Clowney following their Week 2 win against the New York Giants. Clowney needed some time to get up to speed and made his debut in Week 4 against the Green Bay Packers.

As the season went along, Clowney became more comfortable in his role and has turned into one of their top players on the defensive line. He had another strong performance on Thursday, recording four tackles and 1.5 sacks in the win over the Washington Commanders.

On the year, he now has 35 tackles and 5.5 sacks in 12 games. He's tied with James Houston for the lead in sacks, proving he still has plenty left in the tank at 32 years of age. He also wants to continue playing in 2026, and spoke on his plans for free agency following the Christmas Day game,

When asked by Patrik Walker about his future, Clowney said he intends to sign much earlier in the offseason. He added that he would like to knock the rust off during camp, rather than during the regular season.

“Next year, I just gotta get ready a little earlier, and stay ready. Maybe sign a little bit earlier and, like you said, I'm trying to go to camp next year, so I can get the rust off me and get going. I'm looking forward to it.”