OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Safety of Baltimore Ravens Chuck Clark refused to talk about the exchange with Earl Thomas last week, which led to the seven-time Pro Bowl player being released on Sunday.
Clark was punched by Thomas towards the end of Friday’s practice after the two words on the sidelines alternated over a blown cover by Thomas, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
“Right now, as a team and an organization, we are moving forward,” Clark said Monday in his first words since the incident. “We put that situation in perspective.”
Clark is known as one of the quieter and more reserved players on the team. In a video posted by Thomas (and later deleted), Clark was so angry by the defense that he gave a long touchdown – Thomas flashed instead of falling into that area of the field – that he shook off his own helmet and it hit the ground.
Asked if he felt any weight after Thomas’ release, Clark said, “I’m done addressing that, honestly, and the organization as well. So, we’re just moving forward on this point.”
After the fight with Clark, Thomas was sent home Friday and was told not to report to the Ravens facility on Saturday. He was released on Sunday by the Ravens for “personal conduct that negatively affected the team.”
Clark became a starter last season when he replaced an injured Tony Jefferson. Known for his football intelligence, Clark was responsible for forwarding the conversations of defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale. He makes sure everyone is in the right position and tries to prevent any breach of coverage.
One of the most respected players on the team, Clark has seen teammates rally around him even more since the altercation with Thomas.
“Chuck has been the quiet man where boys go,” said tight end Mark Andrews. “These guys respect him a ton. He’s the leader of that defense.”
Clark is not surprised by the support given by his teammates.
“That’s what we stand for here as a team and organization,” Clark said. “We are a family. We are down for each other, when you are towards the ultimate goal – and that is winning and trying to win championships.”
The Ravens also welcomed back reigning NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, who missed the previous two practices. He has to deal with an injury to his ankle, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Jackson ran well, but he did not set off for long runs.
“He looked good,” coach John Harbaugh said. “He had a good practice. We are moving forward.”
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