Dallas Clark is a former American football tight end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 11 seasons. He was born on June 12, 1979, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and attended the University of Iowa, where he played college football for the Hawkeyes.
Clark was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft, and he spent the first nine seasons of his career with the team. He quickly established himself as one of the league's top tight ends, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2009 and being named a first-team All-Pro in 2009 and 2010.
During his time with the Colts, Clark was a key part of the team's high-powered offense, which was led by quarterback Peyton Manning. He was known for his reliable hands, precise route-running, and ability to make tough catches in traffic. He was also a strong blocker in the running game, helping to open up holes for the team's running backs.
Clark's best season came in 2009, when he caught 100 passes for 1,106 yards and 10 touchdowns. He was a major factor in the Colts' run to the Super Bowl that season, catching 21 passes for 223 yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs.
After the 2011 season, Clark became a free agent and signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played one season with the team, catching 47 passes for 435 yards and four touchdowns.
Clark then signed with the Baltimore Ravens for the 2013 season, but he struggled with injuries and played in just seven games, catching 31 passes for 343 yards and three touchdowns. He announced his retirement from the NFL in June 2014.
Throughout his career, Clark was widely respected by his teammates and opponents alike for his work ethic, professionalism, and leadership. He was known for his quiet demeanor off the field but was a fierce competitor on it.
In total, Clark played in 143 regular-season games in the NFL, catching 505 passes for 5,665 yards and 53 touchdowns. He also played in 12 playoff games, catching 64 passes for 847 yards and four touchdowns.
Clark's career was marked by his consistency, reliability, and ability to make big plays in key moments. He was a key part of some of the most successful teams of his era and will be remembered as one of the best tight ends of his generation.
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