The Denver Broncos have made the decision to move on from veteran outside linebacker Frank Clark, according to sources close to the team. This comes as a surprise, considering Clark recently agreed to a restructured deal, willingly giving up $1.686 million in guaranteed salary. The Broncos are now exploring their options, with a potential trade or release on the horizon. This sudden departure follows the recent trade of Randy Gregory to the San Francisco 49ers, marking a significant shakeup in the Broncos’ pass-rushing lineup.
Clark’s Limited Impact with the Broncos
Despite being in his first season with the Broncos, Clark’s time on the field has been cut short due to injury, as he has only appeared in two games. Unfortunately for Clark, his streak of bad luck continues, as he has been declared out for the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to an illness. This lack of playing time, paired with his recent contract restructuring, has raised concerns about Clark’s overall value to the Broncos.
Mixed Success in Previous Stints
In assessing Clark’s track record, it becomes evident that his performances have been inconsistent throughout his career. Prior to joining the Broncos, Clark spent four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he showcased his abilities as a feared pass rusher. In those four seasons, he played in 58 regular-season games, accumulating an impressive 23.5 sacks. However, Clark truly thrived in the postseason, making a significant impact in 12 playoff games with 10.5 sacks to his name. His notable achievements led to three Pro Bowl selections during his time with the Chiefs.
Before his tenure with the Chiefs, Clark started his NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks, playing as a defensive end for four seasons. During his time in Seattle, Clark showcased his versatility, accumulating 58.5 sacks and forcing 14 fumbles. However, it is important to note that his success in Seattle did not translate to consistent performances in Kansas City or Denver.
The Broncos’ decision to part ways with Clark signifies their determination to explore other options for their defensive line. With the departure of Randy Gregory and the underwhelming performance of Clark, the Broncos are in need of a fresh start. The team is likely to pursue alternative pass-rushing talents who can provide more consistent playmaking abilities.
Frank Clark’s departure from the Denver Broncos comes as a surprise, especially after his willingness to restructure his contract. However, his limited impact on the field, coupled with the team’s desire for improved defensive line performance, has prompted the decision to part ways. As the Broncos set their sights on new pass-rushing options, they hope to find players who can bring a consistent level of production to the team. Only time will tell if this strategic move pays off for the Broncos in their pursuit of a formidable defensive line.
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