Houston Texans veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney is expected to return to the field today against the Dallas Cowboys, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Clowney had been listed as questionable with a knee injury and had not played since the season opener.
The update gives the 0-3 Texans a boost in pass-rush depth for a Week 4 home game at Reliant Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET on FOX.
Jadeveon Clowney Injury Status and Timeline
Clowney has been dealing with a bone bruise in his knee. He was ruled out for the Texans’ Week 2 and Week 3 games after missing practice entirely in those weeks. He returned to limited participation Wednesday and Thursday of Week 4 preparations but did not practice Friday, leaving him questionable on the official injury report.
Rapoport’s report indicates the 33-year-old is nonetheless expected to suit up. Other Texans listed as questionable include defensive end Logan Hall (knee), linebacker Jake Hansen (calf), and guard Ed Ingram (groin). Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair (groin) and safety M.J. Stewart (knee) are out.
Clowney’s Role and 2026 Production
Clowney signed a one-year contract to return to Houston in August 2026 after spending the 2025 season with the Dallas Cowboys. The former No. 1 overall pick (2014) is a rotational edge player behind starters Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.
In his only game this season (Week 1 against Buffalo), he recorded one tackle and one sack. His return would add experience and depth to a defensive line that has already generated pressure without him. In his absence, players such as Sabastian Harsh and Dominique Robinson saw increased snaps.
Texans vs. Cowboys Context
The winless Texans host the 1-2 Cowboys in a matchup both teams need. Houston has scored just 23 combined points over its last two games while dealing with injuries on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver Nico Collins (hamstring) and guard Ed Ingram have also been working back into the lineup.
Dallas ranks near the bottom of the league in sacks through three games, so an active Clowney could create additional problems for the Cowboys’ offensive line alongside Anderson and Hunter. The game is the first meeting between the teams in Houston in several years.
Clowney’s availability remains subject to pregame confirmation, but the latest reporting points to him being on the field for the first time since Week 1.