Coach Mike Tomlin says Pittsburgh Steelers not to play Ryan Clark vs Denver Broncos – NFL News
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin has officially confirmed sidelining of safety Ryan Clark in the season opener against the Denver Broncos this Sunday and insisted it was a purely health-related decision as the player, who carries a genetic abnormality,
is on risk of aggravating his illness because of higher altitude of Denver.
This is not a new decision from the team anyway; they have done so in the past just as protective and precautionary measures because the sickle cell trait is prone to intensify in the conditions of Denver.
Mike said:
"That has been our position in the past and will continue to be our position. Ryan understands that and is supportive of that. I am sure he will be a big supporter of his teammates, not only in the stadium this week but in preparation. He always has been
that guy and I expect that to continue."
It is pertinent to recall that Ryan had suffered a severe health problem while playing in the city in 2007. The incident left him without football for a longer period, making him suffer in health at the same time.
He since then has regained full health and fitness and has been a regular part of the team for all games except the road games in Denver. The team has always wisely left him out on the sidelines since then.
Ryan is so much concerned about the disease that he has established a welfare organisation bearing his name and focusing on research and development work on its treatment.
He said:
"We're going to dedicate our efforts solely to sickle cell research and patient care. What we're hoping is we can be the pioneers here."
Although sickle cell trait is one of the rare genetic problems, nearly two million Americans suffer from it. The player is a symbol of courage for them.
It is nevertheless unfortunate that the disease has restricted him to play in certain conditions. He, however, should be encouraged by the team’s concerns for him and efforts they have made for his protection and care.
He is expected to participate in the rest of the games without any problem whatsoever.
Tags: