The best Steelers veteran seasons of the Colbert era

Kimo von Oelhoffen

2010 Notable Stats: 35 tackles, 8 sacks, 1 FF

Kimo von Oelhoffen was one of the Steeler’s most unique defenders back in the early 2000s. Initially signed to be the NT, he was quickly replaced by Casey Hampton, causing von Oelhoffen to shift to DE. While not an easy fit, it was one he did very well, and eventually, he was awarded with his best season as a pro. During 2003 (his age 32 season), von Oelhoffen racked up 35 tackles and eight sacks all at a position he had to switch to in the middle of his career.

While von Oelhoffen has become a name most Steelers attribute to blowing up Carson Palmer’s knee, von Oelhoffen was also a vital defender along with a daunting group of interior defenders in 2003. While the likes of Aaron Smith and Hampton are remembered as elites at their position, von Oelhoffen had the best season of the group. While he would never achieve that level of success again during his career, the fact he peaked at 32 is impressive.

The eight sacks in a particular are a great showing for him. Steelers DE’s at the time were expected to occupy double blocks and free up space for the LB’s to make the splash plays and sacks. von Oelhoffen was still doing this, but he was also getting his own sacks in the process. All in all, von Oelhoffen showed that even as a veteran playing out of position, a great season was still possible.