Ex49ers’ tight end learned game under Walsh at Stanford
Greg Clark, the 49ers’ starting tight end for much of four seasons, 1997 to 2000, died unexpectedly Wednesday at age 49, from an undisclosed cause.
Clark was waived by the 49ers and then went into an early retirement after the 2001 season with injury issues, and had been experiencing CTEtype symptoms, according to a statement issued by his family.
“It is our hope that through further research, we can gain more knowledge surrounding CTE,” Clark’s family said in the statement.
Clark, 6foot4 and 251 pounds when he played, was known for his blocking skills. He finished his NFL career with 92 receptions, 909 yards receiving and four TD receptions.
He also caught two touchdown passes in a 1998season playoff win over the Packers.
In 1999, he broke five ribs during an exhibition game, but played 11 games that season, including one game shortly after an injection for pain punctured and collapsed one of his lungs. Clark was sidelined for the 2001 season with a hamstring injury, and was waived by the 49ers before the 2002 season.
Born in Centerville, Utah, Clark played at Ricks College, then was recruited to Stanford by thenhead coach Bill Walsh, under whom Clark honed his blocking skills and earned AllAmerica honors. He also earned scholastic honors at Stanford.
In 1997, the 49ers drafted Clark in the third round, the No. 77 overall pick. He started four games as a rookie, then started 9, 11 and 15 games in the next three seasons. He retired in 2001.
After football, Clark carved out a successful realestate career. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Carle, and three sons.