Steelers Mentioned as Ideal Landing Spot for Bengals Cornerback Mike Hilton in Free Agency

Could Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton be Pittsburgh bound?

The former Steelers cornerback signed with Cincinnati four years ago. Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron believes Hilton would be an ideal target for the Steelers in free agency.

"Hilton may be reaching his age-31 season, but he hasn’t slowed down yet, still producing as one of the NFL’s best slot defenders," Cameron wrote. "The Steelers will need slot help after Cam Sutton‘s departure, and given that Pittsburgh drafted Hilton back in 2017, a reunion may be in the cards."

The Bengals signed Hilton to a four-year, $24 million contract on March 16, 2021. He has been a mainstay on Cincinnati's defense, racking up 283 tackles, 24 passes defensed, six interceptions and two sacks in 64 regular season games.

Hilton was a big part of the Bengals' defense when they made back-to-back runs to the AFC Championship Game and is arguably the best tackling cornerback in the league.

It wouldn't be surprising to see the Steelers make a push for him in free agency. Will the Bengals try to keep Hilton?

It depends on what he'll command in free agency. New defensive coordinator Al Golden could certainly like Hilton's physicality, ability to play the run and what he brings as a blitzer.

The Bengals could also go younger at the nickel spot with guys like Josh Newton and Daijahn Anthony on the roster.

Hilton was originally drafted by the Steelers in 2017. He spent four seasons in Pittsburgh before signing with the Bengals in free agency in 2021.

Check out the entire Pro Football Focus breakdown here.