Veteran cornerback Mike Hilton played his seventh career game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 1. From 2017 to 2020, Hilton was a key contributor for the Steelers, starting 20 games.
Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting team has suggested the Steelers should consider bringing Hilton back this offseason.
“The Steelers’ decision to rely on Beanie Bishop at slot corner early in the season exposed a weakness in their secondary,” the BR staff wrote. “Donte Jackson has also struggled, and the team lacks a dependable option inside to cover slot receivers and tight ends. Mike Hilton thrived in that role before leaving in the 2021 offseason, a move that, in hindsight, looks like a mistake. He’s performed well for the Bengals, and Pittsburgh should explore a reunion next season.”
This season, Hilton has started seven games for the Cincinnati Bengals, following a career-high 13 starts last year. In 2024, he has recorded 47 combined tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 1 quarterback hit, and 2 pass defenses.
Could a Steelers-Hilton Reunion Happen?
The Steelers typically avoid letting top defensive players leave in free agency, but that’s what happened with Hilton after his rookie deal expired. Although Hilton never started more than eight games in Pittsburgh, he was a valuable slot defender, particularly as a blitzer. He posted at least 6 tackles for loss each season from 2017-2020, with standout numbers in 2017, including 4 sacks and 10 tackles for loss.
Since joining the Bengals, Hilton has continued to excel. Last season, he notched career highs in combined tackles (84) and tackles for loss (12) while adding 8 pass defenses and 2 interceptions.
Hilton’s career began as an undrafted free agent in 2016 with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After brief stints with the New England Patriots and on the Steelers’ practice squad, he made his mark in Pittsburgh by playing all 16 games in 2017.
Beanie Bishop Jr.: The Answer at Slot Corner?
Hilton has maintained his NFL career with his strong run defense and pass-rushing ability. Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades him as the league’s best cornerback in run defense this season. However, his coverage has declined, earning a career-low 59.1 coverage grade at PFF in 2024. This was evident in Week 13 when Calvin Austin III scored a 23-yard touchdown against him.
In contrast, rookie Beanie Bishop Jr. has shown potential in coverage, earning slightly better PFF grades and recording 3 interceptions this season. As an undrafted rookie, Bishop offers long-term upside at a lower cost.
The Steelers also have Cameron Sutton, who can play slot corner. Although Sutton missed the first half of the season due to suspension, he has since played 36% of the team’s defensive snaps. As a pending free agent, Sutton could be retained at a reasonable cost.
While Hilton’s return to Pittsburgh remains a possibility, the Steelers may prefer to stick with their current options at slot cornerback, particularly given the potential and affordability of Bishop.
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