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For some players, taking a one-year contract is a stepping stone to something bigger.

Few played that card better last year than safety Mike Mitchell.

He turned a successful one-year stint with the Panthers into a new deal with the Steelers, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribiune.

Mitchell was considered a draft bust in Oakland, but had four interceptions and brought a physical presence to the Panthers secondary this offseason.

If he pairs with Troy Polamalu, it gives the Steelers a stout pair on run downs, with problems otherwise.