3 free agent cornerbacks Steelers should still target to pair with Patrick Peterson
By Tommy Jaggi
Steelers must target Mike Hughes
If the Steelers are a major improvement in the slot over what they are projected to have in Arthur Maulet, look no further than Mike Hughes. The former UCF standout cornerback was the 30th overall pick by the Minnesota Vikings back in 2018.
While he hasn't done enough to go above and beyond expectations, Hughes was a solid player on an otherwise unspectacular defense in Detroit in 2022. Though he didn't grade out particularly well in coverage, he offers some traits that Mike Hilton used to thanks to his ability to both tackle and blitz at a high level.
Hughes was plagued with injuries early in his NFL career but finally remained mostly healthy over the past two seasons. From a statistical standpoint, Hughes is rather underwhelming -- recording just one interception since 2020. However, that could help Pittsburgh sign him at an affordable price.
The best part is that Mike Hughes just turned 26 years old in February, so in some ways, it would be like the Steelers are getting a younger (albeit less experienced) Mike Hilton again. Hughes would be a great scheme fit and could give Pittsburgh a physical slot CB for the 2023 season and beyond.