Veteran safety Chuck Clark gets unexpected expanded role in debut with Steelers

Chuck Clark has played in 109 NFL games over the past nine seasons. He’s started every game he’s played since 2019.

And yet he began the season slotting in at sixth or seventh on a theoretical depth chart among pieces in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ secondary. After not one but two injuries to starting defensive backs, Clark was thrust into a major role during the regular-season opener Sunday. And he delivered.

The veteran safety was credited with five tackles (four solo, one for loss) during the 34-32 win against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.

Clark was expected to serve as the No. 3 or 4 safety, but when starting safety DeShon Elliott (knee) and starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring) went down with injuries during the game, the chain reaction had Clark playing virtually every snap as the game went on.

That the Steelers could turn to a player who started all 12 games he played for the Jets last season demonstrates the depth they have built in their secondary.

“We’ve got a lot of parts, a lot of pieces,” Clark said Monday from UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. “A lot of versatility, too; guys can fill in everywhere. And that helps, for sure.”

What a play by Chuck Clark (21) to beat the down block by the OT and tackle Fields. Huge stop for PIT. pic.twitter.com/f7snrstiCO

— Kevin Smith (@KTSmithFFSN) September 7, 2025

Clark’s most impactful play was bringing down New York quarterback Justin Fields in the backfield on a third-and-3 with 3 minutes, 21 seconds in the game and the Jets ahead by one point.

“Coach just dialed it up,” Clark said, referencing defensive coordinator Teryl Austin deploying Clark near the line of scrimmage in run support. “I’ve just got to execute. Do my part when your number’s called, for real.”