The first pick in the 2014 NFL Draft wasn't fazed on Tuesday when he practiced with the Texans veterans. Instead, he was focused on comprehending coordinator Rome Crennel's defense.
"I wasn't nervous," outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney said. "I was really trying to get the hang of it and learn the plays."
Clowney and the rest of Houston's rookie class joined forces with the veterans and went through the first organized team activity under head coach Bill O'Brien. And while the new boss didn't lavish Clowney with praise, he did appreciate the first overall pick's effort.
"I think he's doing a decent job," O'Brien said. "He's working hard at it and that's just what he needs to keep doing."
The playbook, as well as the transition from defensive end at South Carolina to outside linebacker here, have been at the front of Clowney's mind.
"He's learning a little bit of a new position right now," O'Brien said. "We'll incorporate him back into some of the things he did in college but right now we're teaching the 3-4 and he's having to learn a whole new position."
Helping him in the process is a former first rounder in defensive end J.J. Watt. The two have already
gotten together off the practice field and out of the classroom so far.
"Some times he makes me go in there extra and work out with him," Clowney said. "He's a team guy. He always says he can help you, no matter what. Just ask him, and he'll show you what to do."
Watt wouldn't say too much about Clowney, but did acknowledge that the rookie is well on his way to being a good teammate.
"I know he's in the playbook and working hard," Watt said. "I think as we go forward we'll be able to see a lot more."
The Texans have nine more OTA's, with two left this week on Wednesday and Thursday.
