View topic - Ravens Sign TE Dallas Clark; Shouldn't The Steelers Have?

[Steelers76 Profile]

I just read the other day where The Ravens signed former Pro Bowl TE Dallas Clark. Given The Steelers current lack of depth at the position due to injuries, does anybody else think they should've inked Clark instead? I mean I know he's 34 and isn't what he once was, but considering the situation they're in I'd take him over who they ended up signing. Consider these were Clark's Number's last year;

-47 Rec -435 Yards -4 TDs.

Now here are TE Michael Palmer's numbers who they signed BEFORE Clark was signed by Baltimore;

-6 Rec -22 yards -1 TD

Seemed like this should've been a no brainer unless I'm not seeing/overlooking something. Thoughts?

[isfry Profile]

The number that probably jumped out at them was not on your list.

25.

Palmer's age. When a rash of injuries has plagued a position perhaps signing an aging veteran as a solution did not seem prudent to the front office. Just a guess on my part. Furthermore, Palmer's stats were those of a man playing behind Tony Gonzalez, which I am sure was taken into account. Lastly, and I have no idea if this is true or how to verify it, but maybe Palmer is a more effective blocker than Clark (especially at this point in his career) and protecting Ben was a consideration?

[Steelers76 Profile]

You raise a lot of valid points, chief among them Palmer's (possibly) superior blocking to Clark's. I really would think that would have more to do with it than age, or Plaxico would've never come back here.

I think also that Clark is a "flex" type of TE had a lot to do with it as well. I.E. a hybrid WR/TE. The Steelers increased TE Production last year, chiefly Miller's, made me think that while he is out, Clark would've been the perfect replacement. Hell, even when he returned, I'd take him over Spaeth anyday.