Colbert Says Casey Hampton Will Be Back with the Steelers in 2012

Despite tearing his ACL for the third time in his career in the playoff loss to Denver back in January, the Steelers sound like they are going to bring back NT Casey Hampton in 2012.

General manager Kevin Colbert said in Indy on Thursday that bringing Hampton back is a no-brainer, as he went so far as to say “yes” when asked if the veteran will be back on the club.

“He knows what to expect,” Colbert said of Hampton coming back off injury. “He knows how to do this.”

As far as Hines Ward goes – things are still very much up in the air. Colbert said a decision on Hines hasn’t been made yet, and many still think he will be released before his bonus hits in before free agency starts.

“I think there’s value in having any experienced player because you want someone to show (younger receivers) the way beyond their coaches,” Colbert said. “Ultimately, that player has to be able to help you win — not only be a mentor, but be a contributor, as well.”

If the Steelers lose Mike Wallace somehow, it sure would be nice to have Ward around, but Colbert said Thursday he doesn’t expect the team to lose Wallace, who is a restricted free agent.