The Denver Broncos are reportedly releasing edge rusher Frank Clark, cutties ties with one of their highest-paid defensive players for the second consecutive week.
Days after Denver traded edge rusher Randy Gregory to the San Francisco 49ers, head coach Sean Payton is now poised to cut ties with another free-agent signing. The Broncos explored trade options for Clark on Thursday, but are now reportedly preparing to release him after Week 6.
- Frank Clark career stats: 131 QB hits, 67 tackles for loss, 58.5 sacks in 122 games
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Clark, who didn’t play against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday Night Football, agreed to a pay cut on Thursday. The altered contract was done to increase the likelihood of a trade, but a deal never materialized.
As first reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Clark will now be released and become a free agent. While no NFL team ultimately traded for him, there is expected to be interest on the open market.
After winning two Super Bowls with the Chiefs, the 6-foot-3 edge rusher signed a one-year deal worth $5.45 million guaranteed to join Denver for the 2023 season. However, he only played in two contests and was on the field for just 29% of the defensive snaps.
Now a free agent, Clark will be attractive to teams as a situational pass rusher. He was credited with 13 QB hits and five sacks in 2022 and will likely surpass 60 career sacks with his next team.
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Clark will also be a sought-after player by Super Bowl contenders looking for pass-rushing depth. As of 2023, Clark has the third-most career sacks (13.5) in NFL playoff history, behind only Willie McGinest (16) and Bruce Smith (14.5).