NFL TEAM FOOTBALL
2025 Free Agency Offers Steelers Chance to Fix Past CB Mistake
Jan
A significant misstep by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021 has had repercussions for the team over the past four seasons. However, the 2025 free agency period presents an opportunity to rectify this error.
The mistake in question was allowing slot cornerback Mike Hilton to depart in free agency, subsequently joining their AFC North rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals. Since Hilton’s exit, the Steelers have struggled to find a consistent presence in the slot, relying on a rotation of Cam Sutton, Arthur Maulet, and Chandon Sullivan, while Hilton flourished in Cincinnati.
Even on a struggling Bengals defense in 2024, Hilton remained a consistent standout, a trend that has continued since his arrival in 2021. His impactful play against both the run and pass has been a significant asset for Cincinnati.
With the Bengals facing several key contract decisions in 2025, including those of star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as well as 2024 sack leader Trey Hendrickson, Hilton is expected to test the free agency market. This raises the question: Will the Steelers seize the opportunity to correct their 2021 mistake and bring Hilton back to Pittsburgh in 2025?
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