For a wide variety of reasons, the Dallas Cowboys did not live up to expectations on the defensive side of the football during the 2025 campaign. Given the effectiveness of the offense, the fact that this Cowboys roster will not qualify for the postseason almost fully falls on the shoulders of Matt Eberflus and his unit.
With nothing left to play for this season, outside of individual pride, it wouldn't be surprising to see some veterans start to pack it in over the final two weeks of the regular season. This is what makes Jadeveon Clowney's comments regarding his motivation from this point forward something that his teammates should look to emulate, but could help him land a contract for the 2026 season.
Dallas Should Re-Sign Jadeveon Clowney for the 2026 NFL Season
“What you mean motivated? They’re paying me," Clowney replied when asked how he will stay motivated for two meaningless games, via Jon Machota of The Athletic. "That’s enough motivation for me. I like money. Not just that. I represent more than just the team. I’m playing for more than myself, my family supporting me. I’m playing for everybody that’s been with me from the beginning. And I ain’t never quit nothing. Ain’t gonna be hard for me to get up and play in no game. Do my job.”
For a former No. 1 overall pick, Clowney has faced his fair share of adversity since entering the NFL. Despite the ups and downs, he has brought the right attitude to the table since Day 1 of his tenure with the Cowboys. That, coupled with the fact he has performed quite well on the field, provides Jerry Jones and the front office with all the reasons they need to offer him a contract to run it back in Dallas next season.
The 32-year-old defender has been on the field for 271 snaps this season, but his stats in key areas show his true value to this defense. While his overall Pro Football Focus grade of 74.6, ranking him 24th out of 112 eligible edge rushers, that metric only tells part of the story of his season. In 11 games this season, Clowney has racked up 4.0 quarterback sacks, 23 hurries, 19 stops, and three batted passes.
With Clowney being this much of an asset to the team thanks to his play, along with the veteran leadership he can offer the roster both in the locker room and on the field, there are very few reasons why continuing this working relationship should not be something that is already on the radar of the front office.