Chicago Bears: Frank Clark Is A Reliable Option As Pass Rusher

The Chicago Bears are in need of an additional pass rusher. With his experience with general manager Ryan Poles and his success, Frank Clark can be a reliable option.

Frank Clark, the seasoned defensive end formerly with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Seattle Seahawks, has become a name of interest for the Chicago Bears in 2023. Clark’s proven talent and experience in the NFL make him an enticing prospect for a Chicago team looking to boost its pass-rushing prowess. There are reasons why Frank Clark could be the ideal fit for the Bears in their upcoming campaign.

Great Track Record

With eight seasons in the NFL under his belt, Clark has established himself as a reliable pass rusher. He has racked up impressive numbers during his tenure, displaying consistent production. For his career, he has 58.5 sacks, 263 tackles, 67 for loss. Additionally, he has 131 quarterback hits. All those numbers are impressive and those categories are what the Bears struggled with last season. Clark’s proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses would undoubtedly enhance Chicago’s defensive firepower.

Familiarity with Poles

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles came over from the Kansas City Chiefs. While he was there, he got to learn about Clark. He knows what type of player he is. Furthermore, Clark has an idea of what Poles wants to do in Chicago. He already understands what his philosophy is, which is pretty similar to what the philosophy in Kansas City.

Experience and Leadership

As a veteran player, Clark brings more to the table than just his ability on the field. His leadership and experience, particularly in high-stakes games, would be invaluable to a Bears’ defense that has young talents like Trevis Gipson and Dominique Robinson. Young players will listen to a three-time Pro Bowler who also has two Super Bowl rings.

Clark’s mentorship could help cultivate the younger generation of players while his on-field prowess would demand attention from opposing offenses.

Versatility

Frank Clark’s versatility is another key factor that makes him a viable option for the Bears. He’s proven his capability to operate effectively from both sides of the defensive line. Some pass rushers are good on one side and not as good on another. If he rushes from just one side then opposing coaches can scheme and mitigate his abilities.

Clark’s flexibility would give the Bears’ coaching staff greater options when it comes to their defensive schemes and game plans. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams can move him around. He can even go with a 3-4 scheme and have Clark play outside linebacker to change things up.

Motivation to Prove Himself

Clark just ended a run of three consecutive Pro Bowl berths. Despite not making the Pro Bowl in 2022, he was a big part of the Chiefs winning the Super Bowl. When this season starts, he will be 30 years old. He seems determined to prove that he still has plenty to offer. This motivation could play in the Bears’ favor, as a driven and focused Clark would be an undeniable asset.

Complementing Existing Talents

The Bears’ current roster houses promising talents like Gipson, whose potential breakout in the 2023 season is eagerly anticipated. The addition of Clark to this mix could form a formidable pass-rushing duo that would pose a significant threat to opposing offenses. Clark’s presence could also alleviate pressure on Gipson, allowing him more freedom and opportunities on the field.

Also, Robinson is a player the Bears really like. He was supposed to be a project with limited snaps last season. However, he played well and earned more time on the field. With the Bears struggling all season, they felt comfortable enough to accept his growing pains. This season, having Clark could be big in Robinson’s development.

The addition of Frank Clark to the Chicago Bears’ defensive unit could prove to be a game-changer for the team in the 2023 season. His track record, leadership, versatility, and motivation make him a strong candidate to bolster the Bears’ pass rush, while his potential partnership with rising talents like Gipson and Robinson could create a dynamic defensive unit that would disrupt and dominate NFL offenses.