Steelers did not have safety Clark play against Broncos for his health

Two years ago, safety Ryan Clark was so near to death while he was playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Denver Broncos that the team did not want to risk his life again on the same field this Monday night.

Instead, the Steelers had ten-year veteran Tyrone Carter and rookie Ryan Mundy split snaps in place of Clark. And Clark himself went onto the field without wearing Steelers jersey, about two and a half hours before kickoff. He ran several times from one sideline to the other like having warm up but would not play the game.

Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin said that he and the team did not want to risk Clark’s health or bring worries to other players and Clark’s family members.

On Oct. 21, 2007, Clark was playing against the Broncos in Invesco Field when a rare blood disorder was aggravated by playing in high altitude. His season ended after having spleen and gall bladder removed during separate operations following the game.