Former Steelers Slot Cornerback Mike Hilton Looking For "New Opportunities"

The Pittsburgh Steelers let Mike Hilton walk in free agency after the 2020 season. He had been a key part of their defense, especially as a versatile slot cornerback known for his blitzing and ability to defend both the run and pass. However, the Steelers had salary cap issues that season and Hilton's market value was higher than what they were able to offer.

In March 2021, Hilton signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. Pittsburgh’s decision to let him go was largely influenced by financial constraints, as they had to prioritize other contracts and maintain cap flexibility. The move was met with disappointment by fans, as Hilton had become a fan favorite and was instrumental in the Steelers' defense during his tenure.

Now 30 years old and approaching his 31st birthday, Hilton is a free agent once again, with growing speculation that he could be on his way out of Cincinnati. On Monday, Hilton took to social media to share a post that seemed to hint at a potential departure, leaving fans and analysts wondering what’s next for the former Steelers cornerback.

The Steelers are facing an intriguing situation at cornerback heading into the 2025 season. Joey Porter Jr. will enter his third year with plenty of confidence, but 2025 is shaping up to be a make-or-break season for him. He’ll need to take a significant leap, and his play in 2024 has only heightened the pressure to deliver a stronger campaign in 2025. Porter has the desire to be great, and many Steelers fans are confident that he can rise to the challenge.

However, there’s a potential issue looming. Donte Jackson is a free agent, and the depth at the slot cornerback position remains relatively thin. Young players like Beanie Bishop Jr. and Cory Trice Jr. are still developing and have potential, with Bishop standing out after seeing significant action as an undrafted rookie in 2024. He made a name for himself and will look to build on that momentum in 2025. Still, the Steelers lack the depth they’ll need at the position to feel fully secure heading into the new season.

If the Steelers can make it work and bring Hilton back to Pittsburgh, it would be an exciting reunion for both the team and its fans. Hilton’s market value is currently around $12.3 million, and given the Bengals’ numerous other areas of concern, it’s increasingly likely he’ll be playing football outside of Cincinnati in 2025. If that is indeed the case, then the Steelers should be in the market for Hilton.

With the Steelers facing some questions in their cornerback depth, especially at the slot position, they could be an intriguing suitor for Hilton. If Pittsburgh does pursue him, it would not only strengthen their secondary but also bring back a familiar face who knows the system and the city well. Hilton's return to Pittsburgh would be a significant boost for the Steelers' defense, and he could be just the player they need to shore up their cornerback room heading into the 2025 season.

Steelers Need Big Changes Made To Their Defense Before The 2025 NFL Season

It’s clear that the Steelers need legitimate changes to their defense. It’s not just about the roster or player talent; the scheme has been called into question on multiple occasions. The defense played soft coverage, allowing better opponents to easily pick them apart, which ultimately contributed to the Steelers' collapse in 2024. 

If the team hopes to avoid another season of disappointment and underperformance, adding Hilton could be the missing piece. Hilton’s return would provide a boost to the secondary, strengthen the defensive scheme, and give the Steelers the edge they need to turn things around in 2025.

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