PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) — Steelers nose tackle Chris Hoke is scheduled to have neck surgery that will end his season and possibly his career, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Hoke, 35, injured his neck Oct. 16 and had been listed out with a “stinger” ever since. The decision was reportedly made Tuesday to have surgery, which means both his season and career could be over.

Hoke played in six games this season, starting two in place of Casey Hampton. He has been with the organization since 2001 when he earned his way on to the Steelers’ practice squad.

This season is Hoke’s final season under contract.

Defensive end Aaron Smith has also been lost for the season to a neck injury. His career could be over as well after this season. Smith’s contract comes to an end this season.

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