Al Clark (American football) facts for kids
| No. 21, 44 | |||
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| Position: | Defensive back | ||
| Personal information | |||
| Born: | February 29, 1948 Bogalusa, Louisiana |
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| Died: | 4 June 2004 (aged 56) | ||
| Height: | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) | ||
| Weight: | 185 lb (84 kg) | ||
| Career information | |||
| High school: | Greenville (Park Hammond, LA) | ||
| College: | Eastern Michigan | ||
| NFL Draft: | 1971 / Round: 3 / Pick: 72 | ||
| Career history | |||
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| Career NFL statistics | |||
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| Player stats at PFR | |||
Al Clark (born February 29, 1948 – died June 4, 2004) was an American football player. He played as a defensive back in the National Football League (NFL). A defensive back is a player who tries to stop the other team from catching passes. Al Clark played for six seasons with three different teams: the Detroit Lions, the Los Angeles Rams, and the Philadelphia Eagles.
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Al Clark's Early Life and College Football
Al Clark was born in a town called Bogalusa, Louisiana. He went to Greenville Park High School in Hammond.
After high school, Al Clark played college football. He started at Grambling State University. Later, he also played for Northern Arizona University and then Eastern Michigan University.
Al Clark's NFL Career Highlights
Al Clark began his professional football journey in 1971. The Detroit Lions picked him in the third round of the 1971 NFL Draft. He was the 72nd player chosen overall that year.
Playing for the Lions, Rams, and Eagles
Al Clark played for the Lions for one year. During this time, he was a cornerback and also helped return kicks. After his time with the Lions, Clark joined the Los Angeles Rams. He played for the Rams for four seasons. His last year in the NFL was in 1976 with the Philadelphia Eagles.
A Memorable Play in 1972
On December 10, 1972, Al Clark was part of a very famous play. He was on the field when the St. Louis Cardinals' quarterback threw a long pass. The ball was caught by a player named Bobby Moore (who later became known as Ahmad Rashad).
Moore ran a long way, past several Rams players who tried to tackle him. But Al Clark finally brought him down. He stopped Moore just one yard short of the end zone! This play became known as the longest pass in NFL history that didn't result in a touchdown.
Al Clark's Role on Special Teams
Al Clark was also a very important player on the Rams' special teams. Special teams are groups of players who play during kickoffs, punts, and field goals. Clark was known for his speed and for blocking kicks. He helped make the Rams' special teams and defense stronger.
Al Clark's Later Life
Al Clark passed away on June 4, 2004.
