Pittsburgh Steelers predicted to target Pro Bowl safety with striking resemblance to Troy Polamalu in free agency
The Pittsburgh Steelers already have one of the best safeties in the NFL via Minkah Fitzpatrick. A true centerfielder, while DeShon Elliott fits in well among the back half of the Steelers defense, he's no Troy Polamalu. And Talanoa Hufanga might not be either, but he's the next best thing, and he could be a […]
The Pittsburgh Steelers already have one of the best safeties in the NFL via Minkah Fitzpatrick.
A true centerfielder, while DeShon Elliott fits in well among the back half of the Steelers defense, he's no Troy Polamalu.
And Talanoa Hufanga might not be either, but he's the next best thing, and he could be a target for the Steelers…
Hufanga named priority signing for Steelers in free agency
Hufanga was named an All-Pro in 2022 after recording four interceptions, nine passes defensed and two sacks to go along with 97 combined tackles, but unfortunately tore his ACL late in the 2023 season. Can you imagine what Pittsburgh's defense could be capable of with Minkah Fitzpatrick and Hufanga roaming the secondary?
– Jordan Dajani, CBS Sports
Now you're probably wondering, why would a former All-Pro and Pro Bowl safety who has been part of an NFC Championship-winning defense with the San Francisco 49ers go to free agency when he just turned 26 this week?
Injuries.
Ever since the star-studded 2022 season that saw Hufanga earn said honors through 17 games, he's played in 17 games total over the last two seasons, one of which was because of a knee injury.
So shelving out a long-term extension at a big price tag is not wise for the Steelers, even if they love having the league's highest-paid defense. But what can't be understated is his similarities not only in his look, but in his play when comparing him to Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu.
So it's just a question of how much for the Steelers. 26 year old's with that kind of resume don't reach the market often, even if they have a detailed injury history.
We'll see if the Steelers bite, or if they can make a fair deal for one of the league's best when healthy.
