C.J. Clark is looking forward to his return to the field
Defensive lineman C.J. Clark and linebacker Isaiah Moore spent a lot of time together in NC State’s athletic training facility over the past year. After suffering similar injuries during the 2021 season, the two athletes went through treatment together, working hard and waiting patiently for their return to the football field.
Sometimes they would be the only two players in the facility, and the duo became closer teammates after dedicating themselves to the rehab process.
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“That was great that I got to do that with him because he’s a great leader, great person as well,” Clark said.
Clark did everything he needed to get back on the field and during the team’s first practice, it took one good rep for the defensive lineman to realize he was ready.
“The first day I came out in pads and I had a good pass rush, and I did a good move,” Clark said. “And then I was like ‘Yeah, I’m going to be good.’
“I just kept watching that same play over and over, and I was like ‘Alright, I’m good.”
Before injury cut last season short, Clark started the first 3 games at nose tackle after starting 2 games his redshirt freshman season as well. The lineman recorded 8 total tackles and 3 quarterback hits in 2021.
Nose tackle Cory Durden was first-team All-ACC last season for NC State and will likely start there this season. That means Clark is embracing his versatility, preparing himself to play defensive end as well.
When he moves out to end, Clark said the biggest difference is the chance to try out his pass-rushing moves in space.
“I feel like the end gives you more of a chance to get to the quarterback,” he said.
The lineman has impressed NC State defensive coordinator Tony Gibson so far this season.
“C.J. is playing end and nose. We’re using him a little bit everywhere. We all know C.J. has a high motor. He’s very athletic and can do a lot of things for us. He’s good against the run, good in pass rush.
“I love where he’s at and where his head is at right now.”
Regardless of his role with the Pack this year, every time Clark is on the field, he is focussed on enjoying the sport.
“I’m ready to get in the game and have fun,” Clark said. “That’s really my biggest goal is to get in, have fun and enjoy the moment.”
Clark said he is feeling good after getting back into the usual training camp rhythm in his fourth year at NC State. During his injury rehab, the lineman said he learned the importance of patience and also expressed gratitude towards his teammates for helping him through that process.
“My teammates helped me out, helped me get through treatment,” Clark said.
“They just stayed with me, and I’m happy that they did that. And they got me here. My teammates definitely got me here.”
When he arrives in Greenville next week, the lineman will stay composed until he flips the switch during his first play back on the field.
“I’m going to try to stay calm and wait till that first snap and let everything out on the first snap,” Clark said. “So I’m going to be really relaxed and, when that time comes and I get on the field, I’m going to be ready to go.”
