General manager Ted Thompson had a wealth of choices at his disposal after marquee inside linebackers (Myles Jack, Reggie Ragland) and defensive linemen (Jarran Reed, A'Shawn Robinson, Vernon Butler) were still available.
But Thompson, overseeing his 12th draft as GM, opted for Clark, a two-year starter for the Bruins who finished his career with 159 tackles (20 for loss) and 6.5 sacks.
"He's innately tough, strong and mature," a scout said.
Added another scout: "I think he can rush the passer. He is an outstanding defensive tackle."