Pittsburgh Steelers 2010 free agents
DT Casey HamptonHEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6'1' / 325
DOB: 9/3/1977
AGE: 32
COLLEGE: Texas
CONTRACT STATUS: 8/22/2005: Signed a five-year, $22.75 million contract. Free Agent: 2010.
2009 Stats: 43 TOT - 23 Solo - 20 assists - 2.5 sacks
Latest Buzz: The 32 year old defensive tackle had his best statistical season of his career, setting career highs in tackles.
Was not offered a contract by the Steelers prior to the 2009 season.
Due to the potential of an uncapped year and coming off of a pro bowl season, Hampton will get his last big pay day of his career.
One avenue the Steelers won't likely explore is franchising Hampton. Representatives for Hampton have already made it known that the pro bowl DT will hold out if the Steelers franchise Hampton.
Out of respect for Hampton the Steelers will only franchise Hampton if they are confident they can strike a long-term deal that works for both sides.
Meanwhile, the Steelers will re,ach out to Hampton's representatives in the next 3-4 weeks and make an offer. Hampton has indicated he wants to return but will not give the Steelers a home-town discount.
If Hampton makes it to free agency, Pittsburgh will monitor his situation closely.
Hampton is believed to be open to returning to his hometown of Texas and playing for the Houston Texans. That talk has been going around since training camp.
Will Hampton return?----50/50----
RB Willie ParkerHEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5'10' / 209
DOB: 11/11/1980
AGE: 29
COLLEGE: North Carolina
CONTRACT STATUS: 8/30/2006: Signed a four-year, $13.6 million contract. Free Agent 2010.
Latest Buzz: Willie Parkers' run as an elite running back has come to an end as the two-time pro bowler was cemented to the bench this season due to the emergence of 22 year old running back Rashard Mendenhall.
Parker had another injury filled season in 2009 and lost his starting job after week 3. Parker rushed for 398 yards in 09 but went out with a bang rushing for 91 yards on 12 carries in the Steelers season finale.
The 29 year old running back made $4 million in 09 and will actively seek an opportunity to start elsewhere.
"I'm a starter and I've always looked at myself as a starter, " Willie Parker said following Sunday's regular season finale.
Houston, Green Bay, Tampa Bay, Seattle are among a few potential landing spots for Parker, however, he will not be in high command.
Will Parker return?----Won't be back----
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