Clowney says he's ready for 2018 after recovering from knee surgery

Quarterbacks might be having nightmares on Saturday evenings this fall after Houston Texans edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney told reporters he's recovered from December knee surgery.

"I'm ready, man," Clowney said to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. "I'm very excited. I’m looking forward to the season."

Clowney was selected first overall in 2014 and entered the NFL as one of the most highly touted defensive prospects of his generation. While his early career was marred by injuries, leading some to prematurely label him a bust, Clowney has become one of the NFL's most dangerous pass-rushers over the past two seasons while recording 15.5 sacks.

Ahead of his fifth professional campaign, Clowney can't wait to take the field.

"I'm looking forward to it, I'm ready," Clowney said. "It seems like it's been so long. This is the longest offseason ever. I just hope everybody will be healthy. Stay healthy, that's our key this year."

Clowney was named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl in 2017 after recording 59 tackles, 9.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in 16 games, the first time he's played a full NFL season.