Longtime Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton is 35 years old and his contract is up. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Hampton is not expected to be re-signed.
The Steelers are expected to turn to some combination of Steve McLendon, Ziggy Hood, and Alameda Ta’amu to replace Hampton on the nose.
Despite Hampton’s age, he is coming off an effective season as a run defender and started 16-of-16 games. He’s likely got some good football left. Hampton stated in late December that he intends to play two more years.
For a comprehensive list of this offseason’s top free agents, bang it here. Hampton will join a nose tackle market expected to include Isaac Sopoaga (49ers), Terrance Knighton (Jaguars), and Aubrayo Franklin (Chargers). This year’s best free agent defensive tackles include Henry Melton (Bears), Randy Starks (Dolphins), Jason Jones (Seahawks), and Richard Seymour (Raiders).
