The Steelers said hello to Brett Keisel and Ryan Clark and goodbye to Kimo von Oelhoffen and Chris Hope this evening.

The Steelers have signed Keisel and Clark, both defensive players, to four-year contracts, the Post-Gazette has learned.

Keisel, 27, a backup defensive end, was signed at virtually the same time that the New York Jets were signing von Oelhoffen, 35, a Steelers' starter at that position since 2000, to a three-year contract.

Then the Steelers turned to Clark, a Washington Redskins free agent, to fill their opening at free safety. They had tried to re-sign Hope, who started at the position the past two seasons, but he balked at their offer and is looking elsewhere.

Clark (5-11, 200), had 57 tackles and three interceptions in 13 games as Washington's starting strong safety last season. He played his first two season with the Giants and the past two with the Redskins.

Keisel will become the Steelers' starting right defensive end next season and Clark will start at free safety.

No money terms were immediately available for Keisel and Clark, but the Jets gave von Oelhoffen a $3.2 million signing bonus as part of his three-year, $9.2 million deal.

"It's a little bittersweet for Kimo vecause he loved it in Pittsburgh," said agent Mark Bartelstein. "He loved playing for coach Cowher and the Rooneys. This was just a great opportunity that opened up and he couldn't pass it up. He had nothing but good memories there and he appreciated everything the Steeelers have done for him and his relationship there."

The Steelers also entertained tight end Aaron Shea of the Cleveland Browns today.

It could be a sign that they expect to lose No. 2 tight end Jerame Tuman as an unrestricted free agents.

Tuman has reportedly spurned offers from the Steelers.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.