Things That Make White People Uncomfortable

by Michael Bennett

Frank Clark is a player we need to discuss. He’s a linebacker we drafted in the second round, in 2015, and a very special talent. Frank came from a rough background. He grew up homeless. He has a history of violence against women, from back in college, an issue that means a great deal to me. But Frank’s trying to change. He’s trying to understand. He could very easily be a broken person by now. That he is not broken and continues to try to be better means, I believe, that he will stay on a trajectory to become a leader and reach kids who can’t otherwise be reached. He needs to be at peace with his past, make amends, and move forward. By virtue of being on my team, he’s also family, and when you are family, you help people to change and stand behind them on their journey. I don’t know what pushing people away accomplishes, especially when they’re young and need guidance. Frank sat with me when I sat for the anthem during our first home game of 2017. It was Cliff and I and young Frank. It meant so much to me, not just to have his support but also because it shows he is growing. I hope people give him the chance to show the person he’s becoming.