Former San Francisco 49ers tight end Greg Clark has died at the age of 49 after suffering from CTE symptoms. David Lombardi of The Athletic first reported the news of his passing.
Last night I heard of the tragic death of former Stanford and 49ers TE Greg Clark through some social media chatter and this afternoon his family confirmed it, releasing a statement shared on here.
Clark was reportedly suffering from symptoms of CTE before his death pic.twitter.com/0ehBTv89ZV
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) July 9, 2021
Clark's family released the following statement.
"It is with great sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Greg Clark,49, cherished husband, father, son, brother and friend to so many. Greg was a dedicated family man who was successful at everything he did, from his academic and athletic achievements as a Stanford scholar athlete to his role as tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, to the creation of a successful real estate platform throughout the bay area. Most importantly, he was a cherished and dedicated father of three sons, and a loving husband to his wife of 23 years. His recent suffering from CTE symptoms cannot extinguish the breadth and depth of his impact on us and others and we are forever grateful for the time we have had with him. It is our hope that through further research we can gain more knowledge surrounding CTE."
"Our organization is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Greg Clark," said the 49ers in a statement obtained by NBC Sports Bay Area. "… Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."
San Francisco made Clark a third-round draft pick out of Stanford in 1997. He played five seasons in the NFL, all with the 49ers. Injuries forced the tight end into early retirement.
Clark recorded 92 catches for 909 yards with four touchdowns in his career.
Greg Clark, a 1997 third-round pick from Stanford, was a great guy to work with in my early years covering the 49ers. I'd run into him from time to time in the East Bay, and he was always friendly, funny and kind. Thinking of his family and all whose lives he touched.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) July 10, 2021
