The Houston Texans and edge-rusher Jadeveon Clowney are "close" to finalizing a contract extension worth between $18 million and $18.5 million annually over five years, according to Yahoo Sports' Jordan Schultz. 

The deal is reportedly expected to be completed by the start of training camp, at the latest. 

The MMQB's Albert Breer first reported the two sides were "making a lot of progress" toward a "mega-extension." 

Clowney, who finished last season with a career-high 9.5 sacks, said last month he wanted to be a member of the Texans for life. 

"I want to be here, too," he said, per the Houston Chronicle's Aaron Wilson. "I'm looking forward to that. Hopefully they lock me in and I'll be here forever. It would mean a lot, something I've always dreamed of. I want to finish my career here."

If Clowney winds up raking in $18 million a year, he would become the second-highest paid outside linebacker in the NFL on an average annual basis behind Denver Broncos edge-rusher Von Miller ($19 million).