5 potential replacements for Steelers CB Joe Haden in 2022
By Tommy Jaggi
Mike Hughes, Chiefs
Mike Hughes is another name that could potentially be on the market that the Pittsburgh Steelers could explore. The former first-round pick was somewhat of a disappointment on the Minnesota Vikings for his first three seasons, but he has had an excellent year for the Kansas City Chiefs.
According to Pro Football Focus, Hughes is the 8th-highest-graded cornerback in the NFL this year. Though he has just three career interceptions, Hughes has proved to be one of the better cover cornerbacks in the NFL, and the Steelers will fall in love with his ability to come up and support the run.
At 5’10” and 189 pounds, Hughes is significantly smaller than both Ahkello Witherspoon and Kevin King, but he’s a good athlete in his own right and makes up for his lack of elite size with quick-twitch and scrappiness.
The Steelers have had success in the past from poaching a Chiefs cornerback in Steven Nelson, and Hughes would be able to play a similar role if they decide he’s worthy of being Joe Haden’s replacement on the team next season.