Hampton to be released?

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.

If he didn't seem too concerned, neither did inside linebacker James Farrior, who's long benefited from Hampton occupying multiple blockers up front.

"Been nice working with you, dawg," Farrior said, with a laugh, as he left the Steelers' locker room.

Unfortunately for Hampton, Farrior may say something similar to him in the not-so-distant future.

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. Continue