Hampton Talks About Contract; Rumors of Possible Release

Yeah, there’s rumors about the Steelers releasing Casey Hampton, but I don’t see it happening. Hampton may come into camp out of shape, but the bottom line is he’s still a big part of the Steelers 3-4 defense. Here’s a bit more on Hampton in the Tribune Review today:

Casey Hampton reacted to Internet rumors that the Steelers will release the veteran nose tackle before the start of the regular season. “Oh, they’re going to cut me today?” Hampton said after Tuesday’s practice. Hampton is one of a handful of starters heading into the final year of his contract, and the Steelers may be finished doing business until after the 2009 season following the signing of defensive end Brett Keisel to a five-year deal Monday.

“If they let me get to free agency, everybody knows what it’s going to be,” said Hampton, who’s made four Pro Bowls. “There ain’t nothing to even talk about.” Hampton spouted the same company line that others in his position have said since preseason practice started — sort of. “I’d be lying if I said it didn’t bother me, but that’s part of the business,” Hampton said. “But I’m not going to worry about it. I’m not going to make a grudge and say, ‘I can’t understand why they didn’t sign me.’ I understand it’s a business, but being here this long … I’m not going to lie and say it doesn’t bother me because I do want to be here.”