After retiring as a player, Clark began his coaching career as an assistant coach for the Miami Dolphins in 1972. He was promoted to offensive line coach in 1976 and helped the Dolphins win two Super Bowls in 1973 and 1974. He left the Dolphins in 1979 to become the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers. He coached the 49ers for two seasons before being fired in 1981.
Clark then became the head coach of the Detroit Lions in 1982. He coached the Lions for five seasons and led them to the playoffs in 1982, 1983, and 1984. He was fired by the Lions after the 1984 season and retired from coaching.
Clark was known for his offensive line coaching and was considered one of the best in the NFL. He was also known for his ability to develop young players and was credited with helping to develop several future Hall of Famers, including Larry Little, Jim Langer, and Dwight Stephenson.
Clark was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1990 and died in 2009 at the age of 72. He was remembered by his former players and colleagues as a great coach and mentor who had a positive impact on their lives both on and off the field.
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