Out with the old, in with the new. Sometimes, that can be easier said than done, especially as a recently traded professional athlete; doubt can creep into your mind. Yet, it's having the opposite effect on new Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark, who seems excited about the next chapter of his career.
Cowboys fans have understandably been distracted by superstar edge rusher Micah Parsons heading to the Green Bay Packers. They're filled with so much anger, sadness and disappointment that acquiring Clark as part of the stunning blockbuster swap still hasn't registered with them. However, the latter gave the Dallas faithful the jolt they needed to start looking ahead rather than dwelling on an ugly breakup.
Dallas wasted no time introducing Clark to the local media, presumably to give them something positive to speak on following Parsons' departure. It was a savvy PR move, and the ex-Packers standout took it in stride. This should make Cowboys Nation slightly less high-strung regarding the situation, albeit a small consolation.
New Cowboys DT Kenny Clark does his best to help fans forget about Micah Parsons
Clark told reporters he was getting his daughter ice cream when he discovered the Packers shipped him to Dallas. The three-time Pro Bowler was initially "shocked," according to the Cowboys' official website. Nevertheless, excitement about a fresh start and being welcomed with open arms eventually kicked in.
" ... once Jerry [Jones] and all those guys called me, [Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer] and everybody, I just felt wanted," Clark said. "It's a blessing, I'm appreciative of it."
It sounds like Clark's time in Green Bay had run its course after nine seasons with the organization. For whatever reason(s), the Packers ostensibly didn't value him as the franchise centerpiece he's been for nearly a decade. Conversely, the Cowboys have quickly made the soon-to-be 30-year-old feel comfortable and valued, a minor win amid the Parsons fallout, but a victory nonetheless.
In turn, Clark vows to put his best foot forward in Dallas, be a hard worker, lead by example and make no excuses. He understands the challenges of representing "America's Team," but isn't afraid and is demonstrably eager about landing with the Cowboys.
"No nonsense, you're going to get a dawg, somebody that's just all about football," Clark stated. "I'm here to ball. I'm here to be my best self. I feel like when I'm my best self, there's nobody messing with me. That's what I bring to the table, I'm here to play my ass off."
More Cowboys News and Analysis