2002: 8 Total Tackles - 8 Solo, 0 Sacks, 0 Stuff. 0 FFs, 0 INTs, 1 PD.
2002 could be termed a disappointing year for Hank. He failed to find a niche in any of the Steeler pass coverage units and Antwaan Randle El took over his duties as the primary kick and punt return man. He signed a 1 year RFA contract in April to stay with the Steelers in 2003 and, depending on how the Steelers draft, may be fighting for a roster spot in camp.
Hank Poteat, from Pitt, was the second of two Steelers third round picks in 2000. Hank had an excellent rookie season as a kick/punt returner and tied for fourth in the AFC and sixth in the NFL for punt returns with a 13.0 average. His 36 punt returns for 467 yards included a 53-yard TD. In kickoff returns, he finished the season with 24 returns for 465 yards (highest on the team). The 2001 season was a disappointment, as far as Poteat's future as a return man was concerned, and he eventually lost the job to Troy Edwards. A turf toe problem that flared up with the season opener in 2002 was a new setback for
Poteat resuming the return duties. Rookie phenom Antwan Randle El took over the position after Poteat's injury. It is still hoped that Hank will be a contributer in the dime coverage unit. At Pitt, Poteat set a school record with 1,917 career kickoff return and was a 1999 All-America third team and Super Sleeper Team selection by SportsPage.com. As a weakside cornerback, he earned an All-Big East Conference selection his senior year, and All-America second team honors (Football Digest) and consensus All-Big East Conference first team honors his junior year. |
