General manager Brian Gaine of the Houston Texans said on Friday that he is optimistic the team will sign Pro Bowl linebacker Jadeveon Clowney to a long-term contract before the start of the season.
Clowney is set to play on his fifth-year option in 2018, when he will receive a significant raise because he was the No. 1 overall pick in 2014. He made $7 million in 2017 and is scheduled to make more than $12 million this season.