Enough of the Bullshit ‘Next Man Up’: Damone Clark Vents Frustration Amid Fan Criticism.
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Damone Clark didn’t hold back following a wave of criticism from fans after recent defensive struggles. The 23-year-old, often tasked with stepping up in a depleted linebacker corps, voiced his frustration on social media and in postgame interviews, calling out the “Next Man Up” mentality that has become an all-too-familiar narrative in Dallas.
“Enough of the bullshit ‘Next Man Up,’” Clark said after Sunday’s loss. “We’re not robots. You can’t just plug someone in and expect the same results. That’s not how this works.”
Clark’s raw comments reflect mounting pressure inside the Cowboys’ locker room, where injuries have decimated the linebacker depth chart. Since the loss of veteran Leighton Vander Esch, Clark has been asked to take on more responsibility. But after a string of inconsistent performances, fans have begun to turn on him — something he clearly takes personally.
“I give everything I got out there. I watch the film, I take the hits, I lead when I need to. But some fans act like we’re not human. Like we don’t feel this too,” Clark added.
While some fans took offense to his tone, others applauded his honesty, understanding the emotional toll of constantly being asked to replace veteran leadership in high-pressure moments. Analysts have noted Clark’s upside, but also acknowledge he’s been put in a tough spot without consistent support around him.
The Cowboys, still very much in the playoff picture, need Clark’s fire — but also need to find balance in their expectations for young defenders still developing in the league.
As the team prepares for a crucial Week 15 showdown, Clark’s message is clear: respect the grind, understand the pressure, and don’t reduce the battle to clichés.
