Local NFL players roundup: Clowney makes tackle-for-loss in ‘15 debut

The Houston Texans’ season began with a thud, but a promising 2015 debut from Jadeveon Clowney could serve as conslation for fans, especially in the Rock Hill area.

The former South Pointe Stallion returned to the field for the first time in competitive action since his December knee surgery, and made four tackles, including one for a loss, during the Texans’ 27-20 loss to Kansas City. Clowney brought down Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles for a loss, then stopped him on a key third down in the third quarter when the Texans were trying to overcome a poor start.

“I think he did a good job on that one third-and-1 play,” Texans defensive lineman J.J. Watt told media afterward. “That was a big play. In the huddle, we talked about it before the play, alerting him to the situation we were in. I think he did a great job taking that information and using it on the play. That was a big third down stop that he got. I think you're going to see him more and more.”

Find video of Clowney speaking postgame here.

Joseph makes four stops for Texans

Northwestern’s Johnathan Joseph made four tackles for the Texans during the loss to Kansas City. The 10-year veteran cornerback also broke up a pass.

Watson plays most of the game during Saints’ loss

Benjamin Watson earned his check during the New Orleans Saints’ 31-19 loss to Arizona, playing over 90 percent of the offensive snaps. Watson - the former Northwestern Trojan and Virginia native - is seeing increased playing time in part because of the exit of Jimmy Graham to Seattle during the offseason. Watson was targeted by Drew Brees five times, making three grabs for 19 yards.

Gilmore helps shut down Andre Johnson in Bills’ win

Buffalo dropped Indianapolis 27-14 with big help from former South Pointe Stallion Stephon Gilmore. He helped cover Colts receiver Andre Johnson for the afternoon, limiting the free agent signing from Houston to just 24 yards receiving, and also broke up four passes. Gilmore, who played ever defensive snap, finished with six tackles.

Walker makes three tackles in Broncos’ win

Fort Mill’s Vance Walker made three tackles in Denver’s 19-13 win over Baltimore Sunday. Walker - in his competitive debut for Denver after signing from Kansas City in the offseason - played all across the Broncos’ defensive front.

This story was originally published September 14, 2015 at 2:46 PM with the headline "Local NFL players roundup: Clowney makes tackle-for-loss in ‘15 debut."