4 former stars Steelers should sign before training camp

Malik Hooker

Besides Malik Hooker, every option on this list is a well-established veteran who are past their primes. Hooker presents an entirely different case, as he is just coming off of his rookie deal after being a highly-touted prospect coming out of Ohio St. When on the field, Hooker has been a great asset and a prototypical ball-hawking safety. His issue is his health, as he has only been able to play in 36 out of 64 total games since getting drafted.

When healthy, he has been an asset in the secondary though. He has seven career interceptions at this point despite not playing in every game a solid option in coverage. Only playing in two games last season has really tanked his value though and is the primary reason is still a free agent.

What he would provide is a versatile chess piece for the Steelers secondary. The team could try him as a slot option (it would be a true test though as he hasn’t seen any predominant snaps in the slot) as well as serving as the third safety. As well, Hooker would be a great third safety that the team could use in a limited package. While the team drafted Tre Norwood, banking on him being the backup-free safety would be a risk. Hooker would provide versatility and great depth if the team signed him.

The Steelers still have a few needs on the roster heading into camp. Adding former stars like the names above gives this team the best chance to win now. Each would fill a role during the season and would be an upgrade over what the team currently has.