Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Ryan Clark (American football)

How Ryan Clark (American football) built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Ryan Clark is a former American NFL safety. He played college football at LSU before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants in 2002. Clark is best known for his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he won Super Bowl XLIII and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2011. He also played for the Washington Redskins during his career. Clark was known for his hard-hitting style and leadership on the field.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2001: Tackles and Interceptions

In 2001, Ryan Clark ranked third on the LSU Tigers with 88 tackles and intercepted three passes.

April 26, 2002: Signed by the New York Giants

On April 26, 2002, Ryan Clark signed a three-year, $906,000 contract with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent, including a signing bonus of $1,000.

October 21, 2002: Released by the New York Giants

On October 21, 2002, the New York Giants released Ryan Clark, replacing him with veteran safety Johnnie Harris.

October 23, 2002: Signed to the Giants' Practice Squad

On October 23, 2002, Ryan Clark was signed to the New York Giants' practice squad.

2002: Community Involvement

In 2002, Ryan Clark participated in the United Way Hometown Huddle and "Operation PaintFest" with the Giants.

2002: Signed as an undrafted free agent

In 2002, Ryan Clark was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent.

October 19, 2003: First Career Start

On October 19, 2003, Ryan Clark earned his first career start for the Giants and deflected a pass during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

December 28, 2003: First Career Sack

On December 28, 2003, Ryan Clark recorded his first career sack during a game against the Carolina Panthers, sacking quarterback Jake Delhomme.

May 28, 2004: Waived by the New York Giants

On May 28, 2004, Ryan Clark was waived by the New York Giants.

July 31, 2004: Signed by the Washington Redskins

On July 31, 2004, Ryan Clark signed a two-year contract with the Washington Redskins.

November 14, 2004: Season-High Tackles

On November 14, 2004, Ryan Clark collected a season-high 11 combined tackles during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

October 30, 2005: First Career Interception

On October 30, 2005, Ryan Clark collected a season-high 11 solo tackles, deflected a pass, and made his first career interception during a game against the New York Giants, intercepting a pass by Eli Manning intended for Plaxico Burress.

March 14, 2006: Signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers

On March 14, 2006, Ryan Clark signed a four-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

October 8, 2006: First Interception as a Steeler

On October 8, 2006, Ryan Clark recorded his first interception as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers during a game against the San Diego Chargers, intercepting a pass by Philip Rivers.