It’s not really fair to call Dallas Clark a tight end. He lines up as a slot receiver more than the line scrimmage, so he’s essentially a wideout.
The NFL does classify him as a tight end, though. And Clark could put up numbers this season that no tight end in NFL history has before.
The NFL record for receptions in a season is 102 by Tony Gonzalez in 2004; the yardage record is 1,290 by Kellen Winslow in 1980. Almost halfway through the 2009 season, Clark is on pace to break both records with 105 catches and 1,335 yards.
While youngsters Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon have played better than expected, Clark has essentially slid into the team’s number two receiver role. The Colts passing attack is a far more efficient attack without a declining Marvin Harrison.
Even if Clark doesn’t break the records, he should finally make a Pro Bowl. Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez have had a lock down on AFC honors, but Gonzo is finally gone for the NFC. Following Owen Daniels’ season-ending injury, Clark should be a shoo in for the honor.
And considering all the injuries on defense Indianapolis has suffered, the Colts will have to keep throwing like crazy to win as their schedule gets tougher down the stretch, starting with a matchup against Houston Sunday.
Don’t be surprised if Clark is still on pace to break those records late in the season.