Just 1 Hour After Being Released by the Seahawks, Former DT With Over 445 Career Tackles Signals His Desire to Join the Steelers

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – 06/12/2025

The NFL rarely sleeps in December, but even by league standards, the whirlwind surrounding veteran defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins has been staggering. Barely one hour after the Seattle Seahawks released him with a non-injury settlement, the 33-year-old lineman sent shockwaves through the football world with a bold, heartfelt declaration of where he hopes to play next: Pittsburgh.

Hankins, a former second-round pick with more than 445 career tackles across stops with the Giants, Colts, Raiders, Cowboys, and Seahawks, has built a reputation on toughness, professionalism, and quiet leadership. And now, as his NFL future sits in limbo, he is making it clear that his next chapter — if given the chance — belongs in the Steel City.

The veteran didn’t hide his emotions when discussing what a move to the Steelers would mean to him.

“If Pittsburgh opens that door even a little, I’m stepping through it. I’ll take the practice squad, I’ll fight for every snap. All I want is one shot to earn that black and gold and show I can still help a team built on toughness.”

The timing of Hankins’ message couldn’t be more intriguing. The Steelers, dealing with defensive line depth concerns and navigating a playoff push in a tightly packed AFC landscape, have quietly explored front-seven reinforcements. While nothing is imminent, Hankins’ public interest adds a compelling wrinkle to Pittsburgh’s December strategy.

For Hankins, the attraction goes beyond opportunity. The Steelers’ defensive identity — discipline, physicality, tradition — aligns perfectly with the style of football he has played his entire career. Those close to him say Pittsburgh’s culture feels like a “natural fit,” and the veteran echoed that sentiment when asked why he singled out the franchise so quickly.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh continues preparing for a pivotal stretch that could define its playoff fate. With injuries testing the roster’s depth, the possibility of adding an experienced interior defender isn’t something the organization can easily overlook.

Hankins’ journey isn’t new to adversity. He has fought through double-teams, battled back injuries, and earned every role he has ever held. But now, his fight is different — it’s about finding one final home, one more locker room, one more chance to make an impact.

Whether the Steelers take him up on that plea remains to be seen. But in just one hour, Hankins made something crystal clear: he’s not done, not ready to walk away, and not afraid to start from the bottom to wear the black and gold.

And that kind of resolve has always resonated in Pittsburgh.