Add Jadeveon Clowney himself to the list of people who think he can fully recover from microfracture surgery, and become the player he once was.

"I'm very confident about that," Clowney said, according to a report from ESPN. "This rehab's going to help me a lot to get back towards playing."

The remarks were Clowney’s first since his surgery in early December.

Last year’s first overall draft pick missed all but four games last year to knee injuries. After suffering a torn lateral meniscus and articular cartilage damage in the Texans’ season opener, Clowney had arthroscopic surgery. His microfracture surgery was a result of Clowney’s knee not responding well to the first surgery.

After head coach Bill O’Brien and team owner Bob McNair said they believe Clowney will return to full strength, the 22-year-old fully agreed.

"Very encouraged," said Clowney. "Everything is looking good right now for me. I'm feeling better than I was previously. Just hoping to stay on this track and work towards getting back."