1. Introduction
Kenny Clark has been a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers’ defensive line since entering the NFL in 2016. Over nine seasons, the Pro Bowl defensive tackle offered consistency, leadership, and standout play—until the Packers traded him to the Cowboys in the blockbuster Micah Parsons deal in 2025. This article explores his PFF grades, career highlights, overall rating, and legacy in Green Bay.
2. Career Overview & Rating
Draft & Early Years
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Drafted in the 1st round (27th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft from UCLA.
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Quickly emerged as a reliable interior force for the Packers.
Accolades & Stats
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3× Pro Bowl selections: 2019, 2021, 2023.
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Career totals (as of 2024): approximately 417 tackles, 35 sacks, 7 forced fumbles, 8 fumble recoveries, and 12 pass deflections.
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Ranked No. 27 among interior defenders ahead of the 2024 season per PFF. PFF
PFF Grades & Analytics
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Though his precise overall PFF grade isn’t publicly published, his interior defender ranking and consistent play reflect solid performance
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Against the run, his grade was strong: ranking among top run-stoppers in some metrics.
Snap & Role Importance
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A Reddit fan noted:
“Kenny Clark played the second most defensive snaps. That’s incredible for an interior DL.”
This underscores his durability and the trust the coaching staff placed in him.
2025 Outlook Before Trade
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Poised for a bounce-back season after injury setbacks:
“Defensive end Lukas Van Ness and defensive tackle Kenny Clark both dealt with injuries last season, but are poised for bounce-back performances in 2025.”
Rating Summary
Overall, Clark earned a high esteem among NFL interior defenders, backed by Pro Bowl nods, strong PFF rankings, and consistent snap usage—a testament to his rating as a reliable, alpha-level DT for Green Bay.
3. Highlight Reel & On-Field Impact
Memorable Game Moments
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In a clutch moment:
Kenny Clark recorded a massive sack on Justin Fields during the Bears game’s final offensive drive, showcasing his situational impact.
Leadership & Locker Room Presence
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Featured in Packers’ media segments:
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“Packers Daily: Leading the charge”, where Clark and Rashan Gary were highlighted as anchoring the D-line in the offseason.
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Showed his enthusiasm in “Kenny Clark: ‘I’m so excited to play ball’”, capturing his readiness for the season.
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Community & Character
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Off the field, Clark demonstrated personal strength when his father—recently released from prison—attended his NFL game for the first time. Clark’s emotional reaction highlighted his courage and resilience, earning respect off the field.
4. PFF Grade Analysis & Evaluation
While exact overall PFF grades aren’t disclosed, the indicators below help gauge his performance:
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Ranked 27th among interior defenders per PFF.
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Run-defense: Ranked solidly in run-stop percentages, reflecting effectiveness in the trenches.
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Snap Reliability: High volume of snaps played underscores his consistency and centrality.
Clark’s grade, therefore, reflects a well-rounded interior defender—focused on both stopping the run and providing interior pressure.
5. Trade Departure: A New Chapter
In August 2025, the Packers traded Clark to the Dallas Cowboys in a blockbuster move to acquire Micah Parsons.
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Reported as part of the package that sent Parsons to Green Bay in exchange for Clark plus two first-round picks (2026, 2027).
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This marks the end of an era: “Kenny Clark, a respected veteran, leaves Green Bay after nine seasons.”
6. Legacy and Takeaways
Packers Legacy
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One of the most consistent defensive tackles of his era in Green Bay—a multi-time Pro Bowler and reliable leader.
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Versatile as a run-stopper, pass rusher, team leader, and community figure.
Cowboys Fit
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Dallas gains a proven veteran calming force inside on defense, pairing him with Osa Odighizuwa.
7. Conclusion
Kenny Clark’s tenure with the Packers was defined by durability, performance, leadership, and consistency.
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His PFF-rated performance ranked him among the league’s better interior defenders.
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Key moments—like game-clinching sacks—and media recognitions reinforced his influence.
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His departure underscores his value: he became a major trade asset.
As Clark transitions to the Cowboys, his legacy in Green Bay remains one of steadiness, professionalism, and excellence.
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