Steelers’ Teryl Austin Calls Out Chuck Clark For Multiple Failed Chances Despite Week 16 Win

The Pittsburgh Steelers managed to pull off a thrilling 29-24 win in Week 16, despite some attrition. One of the big problems was that slot corner Brandin Echols, who has been a natural fit in Pittsburgh’s scheme, got injured and had to miss the rest of the game. Instead of having a backup come in to replace him, the secondary had to shuffle around to make up for his loss. That included Jalen Ramsey leaving the safety position, even though that has easily been where he has played the best in the 2025 season. 

Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers’ Jalen Ramsey breaks up a pass that was intended for Ja’Marr Chase during the 2025 season.

“We had our opportunities,” Austin said. “I think we probably dropped three interceptions in the second half that could have changed the game. That’s really what we work on. Those opportunities are there, but we have to take advantage of them. That changes the game.”

After Ramsey moved to slot corner, safety Chuck Clark got his chance to show that he’s more than just a veteran backup. Once he was put into the game, he had three separate chances to haul in an interception. He was not able to secure a single one. 

In a game that was decided at the goal line in the final seconds, Clark snagging at least one of those potential picks would have been huge for Pittsburgh, but instead, they had to dial up victory in dramatic fashion.

Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers

Chuck Clark (#21) celebrates after making a tackle against the Cincinnati Bengals during Week 7 of the 2025 NFL regular season.

Clark has had a rough year overall, and it really came to light when he was benched, Ramsey moved to safety, and Kyle Dugger was brought in via trade, as the defense played much better with these changes. That Week 16 game was the first time he had a pass defended since Week 6, and now he is still getting called out for failing to turn those passes into interceptions.

As of now, Clark is expected to start in a Week 17 game that could potentially decide the division. Echols missed Wednesday’s practice with the same groin injury that took him out of this last contest, and that means Ramsey may have to play the whole game at slot corner. The veteran safety will have another chance at redemption, and maybe he can haul in an interception this time. 

T.J. Watt was listed as a limited participant in his first practice since his lung injury.

With DK out, Calvin Austin III also DNP. Something to watch.

Brandin Echols and Troy Fautanu also DNP.

Limited: Warren, Pierre, Herbig, Seumalo. pic.twitter.com/A06Ph4rTMi

— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) December 24, 2025

At this point, Clark is playing for more than the rights to host a game in the Wild Card Round; he will have to take full advantage of this opportunity to show that he can still play at a high level, whether it’s with the Steelers or somewhere else that would take notice. He was a free agent until August in 2025. If he keeps dropping interceptions and not playing well, he may be a free agent again for even longer. 

Steelers Will Have Unique Task In Week 17

The Steelers will have to stop Shedeur Sanders and make him look like a fifth-round rookie in Week 17. He still has a lot of flaws, but one thing that does make him a threat is the fact that he has no fear. He will likely be launching deep balls all game long, so the defensive backs will be tested repeatedly. With Clark back there, he may be the main target for these splash play attempts. He will likely have another chance to pick a pass off. 

AP Photo / Rusty Jones

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders celebrates after a touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of a preseason NFL football game on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C.

What do you think about Austin calling out Clark for his missed interceptions? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.