
#21 S · Detroit Lions
1 transaction this offseason
Height
6'0"
Weight
210 lbs
Age
31
College
Virginia Tech
Draft
2017, Rd 6, #186
Experience
9 yrs
S Rank
#57 / 197
Grade this player:
| Year | Team | GP | INT | PD | Tkl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | ![]() | 123 | 5 | 37 | 504 |
| 2025 | ![]() | 15 | 0 | 3 | 51 |
| 2024 | ![]() | 12 | 0 | 2 | 69 |
| 2022 | ![]() | 17 |
Length
1 year
Total Value
$1.4M
AAV
$1.4M/yr
The Detroit Lions struck gold with Chuck Clark's one-year, $1.4M deal, landing a proven safety at what amounts to rotational player money — this earns a stellar A- CVI that reflects exceptional value in today's inflated market. Clark brings legitimate NFL experience and versatility to a Lions secondary that desperately needed depth, yet his modest salary suggests Detroit identified a player other teams undervalued in free agency. At 29, Clark still has quality football left in the tank, and while he's transitioned from his prime starting days in Baltimore to more of a rotational role, his veteran presence and special teams contributions far exceed what you'd typically expect from a $1.4M investment. The short-term structure eliminates long-term risk while giving both sides flexibility — Clark can rebuild his market value with strong play, while the Lions can reassess their safety room next offseason without any dead money concerns. This is exactly the type of shrewd, low-cost veteran addition that championship-contending teams make to bolster their depth without compromising future cap flexibility.
Chuck Clark earns a D+ for the Steelers at safety, a veteran defensive back who brings experience and communication to Pittsburgh's secondary. Clark has been a reliable run-support safety throughout his career, and his ability to diagnose plays and get his teammates in the right position is valued. His coverage range has declined, which limits his effectiveness in deep zones. The Steelers use Clark in specific packages where his intelligence and physicality near the line of scrimmage are assets. He is a useful veteran piece, even if his best football is in the past.
Detroit adds proven veteran depth at safety in a straightforward, low-risk roster move. Five headlines unanimously frame it as a depth addition, with no buzz about a starting role. Clark's experience with the Jets and Steelers signals he's a reliable insurance option, not a difference-maker. Lions fans are cautiously optimistic, welcoming the depth but not expecting Clark to challenge starters. If injuries strike the safety room, Clark gives Detroit a competent, experienced fallback option.
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| 0 |
| 4 |
| 101 |
| 2021 | ![]() | 16 | 2 | 12 | 80 |
| 2020 | ![]() | 16 | 1 | 4 | 96 |
| 2019 | ![]() | 16 | 1 | 9 | 73 |
| 2018 | ![]() | 16 | 1 | 1 | 21 |
| 2017 | ![]() | 15 | 0 | 2 | 13 |
Updated Jan 1, 1970
Recent seasons are weighted more heavily in the overall performance grade.
D
2025
(50% weight)
C-
2024
(30% weight)
C
2022
(20% weight)