The Sports Xchange

The Pittsburgh Steelers officially re-signed veteran safety Will Allen to a one-year contract Monday.

Allen, who was an unrestricted free agent, is expected to play an important role with the Steelers after eight-time Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu announced his retirement last week.

Allen, 32, started four games in place of Polamalu last season and finished with 22 tackles and a forced fumble in 16 games.

“I just want to help the team win any way I can,” Allen said. “I will do whatever is asked. I have always operated that way. I just work hard at what I do. The game can put you in position to help others and help my teammates along the way as well.”

Allen is entering his 12th NFL season and his sixth season with Pittsburgh. He has also spent time with the Dallas Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Allen was originally drafted by the Bucs in the fourth round (111th overall) of the 2004 NFL Draft.

Allen has played in 163 games during the regular season with 39 starts, and he has played in six career postseason contests. His career regular-season totals include six interceptions, 17 pass breakups, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Allen has also contributed 96 tackles, two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries on special teams.