5 LIVE: How far do you go to get Jadeveon Clowney?

Rumors are beginning to intensify as the Houston Texans continue to shop elite pass-rusher Jadeveon Clowney. And although no one can say for certain what a trade may entail, there’s plenty of gossip as to what a potential trade might look like.

In fact, several key names have already been linked in a potential trade. And whether that includes a play-making wide receiver, draft compensation, a starting running back, or the most important position on the offensive line, there’s plenty of possible trade scenarios.

We asked some of our writers to weigh in on the situation, and tell you how far they would go to get the Texans defensive end.

Alfredo Arteaga

Two Questions.  How bad do you want Jadeveon Clowney?  Bad enough to give up a 2nd round pick, and “allow” the Texans to take the WR of their choice in Kenny Stills or DeVante Parker.  That’s it.  Is he worth Laremy Tunsil?  Absolutely NOT.  If you believe the replacement cost charts (A guide by which the odds that a certain pick can replace the player you are trading equalizing transactions) then you have to ask for Two 1st round picks, a 3rd round pick,and Clowney for Tunsil while the Texans also take 2020 salary from non-essential personnel in the form of a Kenny Stills or Kiko Alonso, or both.  If THAT deal is made, you can reasonable expect to replace Tunsil while rolling the dice on Jadeveon Clowney wanting to stay in Miami on an extension.

Jake Mendel

The idea of Jadeveon Clowney on the Dolphins is tempting. However, what is the price? If the Dolphins could get him for a skill position player (Kenyan Drake or Kenny Stills) and a mid-round pick? Sign me up. It is also important to wonder if Clowney actually wants to play in Miami. Worst case, if the Dolphins get him and he decides to leave, you still have a third round comp pick coming back. No chance am I trading Tunsil for Clowney.

Luis Sung

It’s no secret Miami is in need of someone reliable to rush the passer. Scheming it in can only go so far, and with the departure of Cameron Wake, there’s no one to take pressure off the secondary. Enter Jadeveon Clowney, one of the most hyped pass rushers to come out of college in recent history. He wants out of Houston, and the Dolphins are the favorites to land him, But at what cost?

Supposedly, the Texans want Laremy Tunsil. The only way I’d be willing to give him up is if they gave up Clowney, a first round pick, and maybe a little more. Tunsil is too valuable to give up for Clowney alone. However, if Houston is in need of weapons, then a package dealing Kenny Stills, Kenyan Drake and maybe a mid-round pick for Clowney (and a mid-rounder for 2021) would be acceptable. If Clowney is really willing to sit out regular season games, then that gives Miami some leverage. Hopefully, they use it.

Josh Houtz

For me, it comes down to whether or not you view Clowney as the missing piece on defense. Which I absolutely do believe he has that type of impact, and would work wonders in Flores’ hybrid front. But at what cost? I like Clowney, but I would NOT trade away a 1st round pick, or an elite 25-year old LT like Laremy Tunsil. But guys like Kenny Stills and Kenyan Drake, would absolutely be available in a trade. Coupled with a mid-round pick, might be enough to pry away the disgruntled DE.

In the end, a second-round pick as a stand-alone is the highest draft compensation I would part with. The toughest decision would come down to whether or not the Texans would get crazy, and part with a top draft pick in addition to clowney. Would you then make the trade for Tunsil? For a team with such little hope on the offensive line, I don’t think I would…

Ethan J. Skolnick 

As far as you can without giving up Laremy Tunsil. You. Do. Not. Do. That. Not unless there’s no chance of re-signing him. It’s a premium position, just as pass-rusher is. So by giving up Tunsil, you’ve taken from Peter to pay Paul, which makes no sense at this stage, and will have collateral damage in the locker room. It’s difficult enough for Brian Flores to win over the room in the midst of a tank (er, rebuild). Now trade one of the most popular and productive players, at a position of need? Nah. So I’d give up Kenyan Drake and either Kenny Stills or DeVante Parker. And maybe a pick. Or maybe one of them and a second rounder, if you know Clowney will stay long term. But that’s it. No Tunsil. No way.