Ryan

Clark

Clark had 12 tackles last week and is someone to watch. With Matt Bowen out and Andre Lott injured, Clark could have some short-term IDP value in deep leagues.

The surprisingly productive safety is listed as probable and should start in week ten.

He’s behind FS Tyrone Carter on the depth chart for now. Signed from Washington to replace Chris Hope, Clark is also battling rookie Anthony Smith for playing time.

The five-year vet, who had two intereceptions in the preseason opener, is competing with Tyrone Carter for the starting gig opposite Troy Polamalu.

Clark’s medical condition does not respond well to playing in the thin air at Mile High. He lost his spleen and gallbladder after playing there in 2007 and sat out the 2009 game in Denver. A decision on Clark’s availability is expected by Tuesday. Ryan Mundy would start if Clark doesn’t go.

Clark would play if Pittsburgh’s first-round playoff game were held anywhere other than the Denver thin air. Ryan Mundy figures to draw the start. The Steelers are facing a Broncos team that struggled mightily down the stretch, so they may feel they can win without pushing Clark to play. Clark, 32, finished the regular season with a career-high 100 tackles and an interception.

Clark didn’t play in last year’s Wild Card game in Denver, so we knew he wouldn’t play in Week 1 this year. Ryan Mundy, who had five tackles and two forced fumbles in that playoff game, figures to draw the start once again.

Clark suffered his second concussion in three games on Monday night against the Chiefs, but he put in a full practice on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday. The 33-year-old has had an excellent season, and with Troy Polamalu (calf) missing much of the year, Clark has been a fixture on the back end.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Clark “appears to be fine,” but his status is in doubt on a short week. SS Troy Polamalu (calf) is expected to miss at least one more game, leaving the Steelers short-handed at safety versus the Ravens in Week 11.

Clark was injured on the opening series of the second half and was walked straight to the locker room for further examination. Ryan Mundy replaced him on defense. Troy Polamalu is already out with a calf injury, too.