The first, expected change to the Steelers defense will officially take place Thursday. Defensive lineman Chris Hoke will announce his retirement at a press conference held by the Steelers.
Hoke was a classic, valuable role player for an entire decade. He joined the organization in 2001 as an undrafted free agent and remained a backup for most of his career.
Hoke only started more than three games in a season once (2003), but he was the type of unsung 3-4 defensive lineman that the Steelers defense is built upon. Hoke had a neck injury this season and his retirement is no surprise.
The Steelers aging defense faces a lot of questions this offseason, with the futures of Casey Hampton, James Farrior, and Aaron Smith all uncertain.