In a perfect world, Jadeveon Clowney wouldn't be blocked from joining the NFL because the NFL needs to keep its free minor-league system alive and he would be learning the Chiefs' playbook as the first pick of last month's draft.
That said, there are benefits to being a folk hero in a college-football crazy state like South Carolina, like being treated as a rock star as a special guest at the State House.
The first order of business for the South Carolina General Assembly was recognizing Clowney, as WIS/Raycom reporter Jody Barr tweeted. If we were getting recognized at the State House we might wear something other than our best white T-shirt, but we're also not going to argue with Clowney on his wardrobe choice. Or anything else. Please don't tell him we said anything.
It seems everyone wanted to take a picture with the Gamecocks' star defensive end (which might lead to a conversation on misplaced priorities, but that's for another time).
The throng of photographers at SC Statehouse waiting to get pic of nation's top defensive player Jadeveon Clowney. twitter.com/CharlesBloomSC…
— Charles Bloom (@CharlesBloomSC) May 28, 2013
Clowney even showed he might have a future in politics, because he stopped to sign a shirt for a Clemson fan, keeping any and all constituents happy.
Who says you can't have peace at the State House? @uofsc star Jadeveon Clowney signs a Clemson T-shirt for young fan twitter.com/AndyShain/stat… — Andy Shain (@AndyShain) May 28, 2013
And, not surprisingly, Clowney was well received by everyone.
Jadeveon Clowney receiving standing ovation on floor of SC House of Representatives. #Gamecocks twitter.com/CharlesBloomSC…
— Charles Bloom (@CharlesBloomSC) May 28, 2013
Just imagine what South Carolina might do for him if he wins the Heisman Trophy.
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