By Michael Kelley
Social Media Intern
After spending his entire 11-year career with the Steelers, Chris Hoke is back. This time, though, in a slightly different role.
Hoke is serving as a coaching intern during training camp and the preseason, working with the defensive line. The former defensive tackle, who retired in 2012, is thrilled to be back and experience a different aspect of the game.
"I had to jump at the opportunity," said Hoke. "Now I know why there is a method to the madness of the coaches. Sometimes when the coaches came in said this is how we are going to do things, you would go, 'Why are we doing it this way? Now, when you're sitting in those meetings, you know why decisions are being made and it all makes sense."
During his playing days Hoke didn't realize how much work the coaches put in. From studying film, to morning meetings, to deciding which players will practice based on injury situations, the hours add up.
"There's a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes that none of the players know," said Hoke.
Hoke has played with the majority of the Steelers' defensive line, making his presence a great advantage. They know that Hoke has a great grasp of the game and position, allowing him to easily share his knowledge, including proper technique and good footwork.
"They know what kind of player I was," said Hoke. "I wasn't one of the big, physical, strong players. I was a player that was above the neck player. I was more of a technique guy, a guy that thought out the defense."
