The Pittsburgh Steelers made a few smart free agent signings. Bringing in cornerback Jamel Dean and running back Rico Dowdle were bigger moves, but there\u2019s another free agent signing who could make a big difference for the team this year. The Steelers signed Brock Hoffman, an interior offensive lineman who played under Mike McCarthy while McCarthy was coaching the Cowboys. Hoffman\u2019s experience at multiple positions and stability in general make him the team\u2019s most underrated signing.<\/p>\n
While Hoffman doesn\u2019t have a ton of experience at left guard, he\u2019s experienced as a center and right guard. He has 1,212 total snaps over the last three seasons: 684 at center, 452 at right guard and 74 at left guard. That makes him valuable as a backup center option, but he\u2019s also going to compete for a spot at right guard. He\u2019s familiar with the coaching staff and has overall been a steady player<\/a> when called upon.<\/p>\n Even if Spencer Anderson beats out Hoffman to start at right guard, the Steelers have a versatile, experienced interior offensive lineman who can help at all three positions and possibly fill the role as tackle-eligible offensive lineman if needed. For a team where the offensive line should be a strength, having a reliable veteran in Hoffman as either a starter or a top backup is important.<\/p>\n A good offensive line can become a bad one if it doesn\u2019t have depth, and Hoffman gives them a player who can play across the interior if injuries strike or can start and deliver a reasonably high level of play.<\/p>\n