The Baltimore Ravens have been clawing their way back to relevance this season, scraping together a couple of wins to even out their record. But anyone who’s watched them can tell there’s a gap, especially on the defensive side where the absence of some key players from last season is starting to show.
Enter Frank Clark, the former Pro Bowl defensive end whose name is popping up not on the field, but in rumors about who could potentially boost the Ravens’ lineup.
Frank Clark isn’t new to the NFL hustle; he’s been around, making substantial impacts wherever he plays. Most notably, Clark’s tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs included back-to-back Super Bowl appearances and three consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 2019 through 2021.
However, after a less impactful stint with the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks last season, Clark finds himself a free agent, sparking discussions on whether he could be the missing piece for a struggling team, according to Ravens analysts.
Frank Clark could be a low-risk, high-reward signing for Ravens
Anthony Palacios of Last Word On Sports suggests that the Ravens might not dive deep into the trade pool but could very well benefit from a veteran like Clark. He writes, “Clark could be their man starting and helping Ojabo and Oweh. Trenton Simpson could learn for a year before him and the Ravens could always elevate him for another time.”
This idea stems from the notion that while Clark may not be the powerhouse he once was, his experience and presence could be invaluable, especially for mentoring younger talent on the team, specifically David Ojabo and Odafe Oweh.
Clark’s track record is impressive—highlighted by a 13-sack season in 2018 and a history of consistently pressuring quarterbacks during his prime. While his recent stats may not be as eye-popping, the depth and experience he offers are invaluable. It’s not just about the sack numbers; his strategic play and leadership could provide a much-needed boost to a Ravens defensive line that’s been struggling with pressure and presence.
However, the hesitation around signing Clark comes with good reason. His performance has dipped, and at 31, the explosive edge rusher of years past might not reemerge. The Ravens would have to consider if his current abilities align with their defensive strategies and whether his addition would indeed bolster their defense or merely add a recognizable name to the roster.
As the Ravens gear up for the next part of the season, the decision to bring Clark aboard hinges on more than just nostalgia for his Pro Bowl days. It’s about whether he can fit into the Ravens’ defensive scheme and elevate the team’s performance to match their ambitions. Fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how the team maneuvers its roster, especially with potential playoff implications on the line.
The debate continues on whether adding Clark is a strategic move or a stop-gap solution for the Ravens. Either way, the next few weeks could be pivotal in determining the direction the Ravens decide to take for their defensive lineup.