Houston Texans GM Rick Smith pleased with Jadeveon Clowney injury recovery

Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith has admitted that he has been encouraged from what he has seen from Jadeveon Clowney in his injury recovery.

The Texans selected the 22-year-old with the first overall pick in the 2014 Draft, but his rookie season was cut short as he sustained a knee injury which required microfracture surgery.

However, Clowney has made strides towards his recovery in the hope of being fit for the start of the 2015 season.

Smith told reporters: "I've been encouraged and impressed. He's doing well. We expect him to be a major contributor this year."

Clowney recorded seven tackles in his first season in the NFL.