The Jacksonville Jaguars released former Pittsburgh Steelers first round pick Ziggy Hood from their injured reserve list, the team announced.
Hood was the Steelers first round pick, 32nd overall, in the 2009 NFL Draft. He played five seasons in Pittsburgh before leaving via free agency and signing with the Jaguars, a 4-3 style more suited for him. Though he was often criticized in Pittsburgh for a lack of big plays, he had just 11.5 sacks with the Steelers, he was a solid run defender with excellent chase to the ball.
Hood, now 28, suffered a foot injury and was placed on the Jaguars’ IR list on September 5th. He recorded 24 tackles and a sack last season after signing a four-year contract worth $16 million.
While it seems unlikely a return to Pittsburgh will occur as the team seems content with its group at defensive end even if Stephon Tuitt misses time with his knee sprain. However, it’s a move worth monitoring. Mike Tomlin indicated several players would work at defensive end if Tuitt can’t play on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs.
