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NFL Playoffs: Broncos vs. Steelers - Ryan Clark Won't Play For Steelers Sunday

Knowing the right choice would be hard to make for Steeler's safety Ryan Clark, his Head Coach made it for him. During his press conference earlier today, Mike Tomlin stated he had decided to not allow Clark to play Sunday due to a sickle-cell trait, when combined with the high altitude, nearly killed Clark after a game in Denver a few seasons ago.

"I met with him and informed him I am not going to allow him to play in the game," Tomlin said. "It was an easy decision for us. When looking at all of our data we came to the determination he is at more risk so we are not going to play him. It's that simple."

Today's decision is hardly a surprise, seeing Clark hasn't traveled with the Steelers that last two times the teams played in Denver - 2009 and 2010. The last time Clark played in Denver, 2007, he became violently ill - his condition becoming so severe he lost his gall bladder and spleen.

Clark shared his appreciation on Twitter this afternoon: "Well I guess we all know now. I will not be playing. Glad that it's out now. So no more questions to ask. Thanks for your concern!"

The Broncos face the Steelers Sunday afternoon.