What To Expect from the Steelers Defensive Line after This Year

(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Back-Ups

Nose Tackle—Chris Hoke

Similar to Brett Keisel, Chris Hoak was an undrafted free agent from the 2001 draft class. He spent the first three years of his career bouncing between the practice squad and off the team.

Hoke earned his uniform in 2004, when Casey Hampton was injured for six games. He has since been a reliable back-up to Hampton.

Hoak is also 33-years-old, and nearing the end of his career. He may be kept around for a couple more years due to having not played so much earlier, he does not have the injury history most 33-year-olds have.

Defensive End—Evander "Ziggy" Hood

With the last pick of the first round in the 2008 draft, the Steelers selected Ziggy Hood. 

Even though he played defensive tackle in a four-three in college, Hood is transitioning to an end in the three-four.

In mini-camps, Aaron Smith has taken Ziggy under his wings, to show him the ins and outs of playing the position for the Steelers.

Defensive End—Travis Kirchke

Kirchke joined the Steelers in 2004 as an unrestricted free agent from the San Francisco 49ers.

Kirchke immediately made an impact on special teams. In 2005, Kirchke made his way into the defensive line rotation, and has been a solid contributor in both runs to championships.

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