Frank Clark Suspended Two Games

In June 2021, the Kansas City defender was arrested in Los Angeles for felony firearm possession. This occurred when he was originally pulled over for a vehicle code violation. During that instance, police noticed a gun in a bag that was sitting in the backseat, according to NBC News.

After the arrest had been made public, news broke on another arrest of Frank Clark earlier that year. He had also been previously arrested on a gun charge in March 2021. Officers said they found two loaded firearms in the vehicle after a traffic stop in the March arrest, according to ESPN. Clark eventually pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles court on two counts of possession of an assault weapon.

With the two-game absence, the Chiefs will be without Frank Clark for the first two games after the bye week. Kansas City will host both the Tennessee Titans and the Jacksonville Jaguars in those weeks. How will the Chiefs adjust while Clark is out? Let’s kick it off.

What Will Chiefs Defense Miss During Clark Absence?

It is fair to say that Frank Clark has not lived up to immediate expectations following his trade to Kansas City. Overall, the Chiefs have been rewarded from his best moments in the most crucial of games, however. Clark was truly special during the Super Bowl winning run in 2019. In that postseason, he produced seven quarterback hits and five sacks. Furthermore, Clark made some noticeable stops against the San Francisco 49ers rushing attack in Super Bowl LIV. Other top moments include his performance during the Chiefs’ victory at the New England Patriots in the 2019 regular season. He had a sack and two quarterback hits in that contest. Finally, Clark helped get the Chiefs back on track in the middle of last season, coming off of one of Kansas City’s worst starts under Andy Reid.

Consistency may not always be present for Frank Clark. But when he is rolling, his quickness off of the edge sets a tone. It gets the rest of the Kansas City pass rush energized. His spin moves and swim moves can occasionally be lethal, to boot. Clark is able to provide length as well. This can help him against both the run and the pass. Largely, the Chiefs lack plenty of bend and athleticism at defensive end. Even if it not always constant, no one else truly provides that like Clark can for Kansas City.

More Stability At Pass Rush When Clark Returns?

It could be somewhat safe to assume that the Kansas City pass rush could have a new addition by the time Frank Clark returns. We are not saying that you should bet all of your money on the Chiefs trading for a pass rusher. Though, if there was any team that was most likely to trade for some pass rush help before next week’s NFL trade deadline, it would be Kansas City. We touched on a few names that the Chiefs could consider acquiring in today’s article.

There have also been considerable positives from the other defensive ends. Carlos Dunlap and George Karlaftis have each provided immense pressure week to week. The sack numbers may not be materializing for those two. Yet, Dunlap and Karlaftis each have high motors that are tough to corral when they get going. If the Chiefs were to trade for someone and have continued pressure created from Dunlap and Karlaftis, then this absence will not sting too much. And if a new addition comes in, it could benefit Frank Clark just as much once he comes back from the two-game suspension.

Be on the lookout for more FPC Chiefs articles and analysis throughout this week. For more great sports and NFL content, stay tuned to Full Press Coverage.