South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney will not conduct additional private workouts with NFL suitors, according to Sports Illustrated’s Peter King.
Clowney, in contention to be drafted first overall by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft, has a mix of size and explosiveness to draw comparisons to elite pass rushers past and present. He has not yet visited the Texans but is scheduled to meet with the team brass this month, where it is common for the team to request a closed-door workout before investing a first-round pick in that player.
On all visits between now and the May 8 NFL Draft, Clowney will be available only for face-to-face interviews when he travels to visit team headquarters.
The report cites the recent injury to Clemson offensive lineman Brandon Thomas, projected as a top-50 pick by NFLDraftScout.com, who tore his ACL in a private workout with the New Orleans Saints. NFLDraftScout.com projects Thomas lost at least 2-3 rounds draft value because of the injury and its estimated nine-month recovery.
—Detroit Lions cornerback Rashean Mathis re-signed with the team Monday, agreeing to a one-year deal.
Mathis joined the Lions last season and became a valuable mentor to Detroit’s young defensive backs. He started 13 games, led the team with 15 pass breakups in 2013.
—San Francisco 49ers cornerback Chris Culliver pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor hit-and-run charges and felony possession of brass knuckles.
The San Jose Mercury News reported that he entered his plea on Friday in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
Culliver was arrested March 28 after he allegedly struck a bicyclist and then hit a witness’ vehicle that was blocking him from leaving until officers arrived, according to San Jose police.
—The Cleveland Browns signed fullback Chris Pressley to a one-year deal. Pressley formerly started for the Cincinnati Bengals. At 5-foot-10 and 249 pounds, he is considered a strong lead blocker.
Pressley, a six-year pro out of the University of Wisconsin, tore an ACL during the 2012 season and missed all of last year while recovering from the injury.
—The San Diego Chargers waived linebacker Terrell Manning. Manning was claimed off waivers from the Green Bay Packers in 2013, but he played in just one game for the Chargers last season.