Texans Coach Bill O'Brien appeared with Clowney, who he calls 'JD,' at the event at NRG Stadium. Everyone agrees that Clowney is athletic enough to make the move to linebacker from defensive end, the position he played at South Carolina.
As for how he'll fit in with the team, Clowney says he has no doubt it'll work out just fine.
"I feel like I'm fitting in already," he said. "I already talked to JJ Watt, who said, 'Glad you're going to be part of the Houston Texans. I'm going to show you around.'"
Also of note at the press conference, Texans GM Rick Smith said that despite rumors, the team is not considering a trade for New England backup QB Ryan Mallett, which leads to tonight's second round of the NFL draft which begins at 6pm.
Clowney will wear the number 90, which is what Mario Williams wore in Houston. Williams was also a top pick taken by the Texans following the Texans 2-14 season in 2005.
Meanwhile, fans are split over the top pick. Some wanted the Texans to take a quarterback, particularly Johnny Manziel, who went to the Browns with the 22nd pick in the draft. But those who liked the Clowney pick were at the Texans store at NRG Stadium Friday picking up their Clowney jerseys.
"That was good. I'm happy with the first pick," said Texans fan Bob Laws. "Can't wait to see what they're going to pick today."
By taking the highly-rated South Carolina defensive end, fans say the Texans have seriously beefed up their defense, giving JJ Watt, Brian Cushing and company some much needed backup.
The threat from Clowney they hope keep Watt from being double teamed so often.
"I like the fact that Cushing is coming back, Watt will be there, Joseph, Swearinger, with Clowney on the deal, I think we'll be alright," said Texans fan Michael Brocato.
Aggie fans still have struggled with how far down in the draft Johnny Manziel was picked. They say he had something special to offer on the field, a prowess which cannot be taught.
"He brings something new that you haven't seen in a while," said fan Manziel fan Jennifer Vargas.
To turn this Texans team around, fans agree there needs to be a renewed focus; nothing more important than giving your all, leaving it all on the field and winning every game. They hope this is just the first step toward a championship year in 2014.
