The Steel Curtain Ranking: Top 10 Pittsburgh Steelers of All-Time
The Steel Curtain Ranking: Top 10 Pittsburgh Steelers of ...
By Jocelyn Alano July 18, 2024 14:21
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most successful franchises in not only NFL history, but all professional sports and they have had a lot of great players suit up for them over the years. In the 92nd season of this favorite team, this is a perfect time to go further in-depth by naming the top ten Steelers players who have made great strides with the franchise and for all future fans.
1. Hines Ward - Wide Receiver
At the top of the list stands the inimitable Hines Ward, a two-time Super Bowl champion and the MVP of Super Bowl XL. Ward retired as the franchise's all-time leader in catches, yards, and touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. What set Ward apart was his relentless blocking prowess, earning him the reputation as arguably the best blocking wideout of all time. His postseason success was equally impressive, ranking seventh in playoff history in receptions, eighth in touchdown catches, and 10th in receiving yards. Ward's infectious smile, grit, and team-first mentality made him a beloved figure in Steelers Nation.
2. Terry Bradshaw - Quarterback
The cornerstone of the Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s, Terry Bradshaw was the driving force behind four Super Bowl victories. As the franchise's all-time leader in passing attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns, Bradshaw's impact on the game is undeniable. He became the youngest starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl and the first to win three road playoff games in the same postseason. Bradshaw's ability to make big plays in big moments, exemplified by his game-winning touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in Super Bowl XLIII, cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
3. Joe Greene - Defensive Tackle
Widely regarded as the heart and soul of the legendary "Steel Curtain" defense, Joe Greene was a dominant force on the interior line. A four-time Super Bowl champion and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Greene's impact went beyond mere statistics. He served as a mentor to future Hall of Famers Jack Ham and Jack Lambert, helping to shape the Steelers' defensive identity for years to come. Greene's relentless play and leadership were instrumental in the Steelers' dynasty of the 1970s.
4. Franco Harris - Running Back
The iconic "Immaculate Reception" play may have cemented Franco Harris' place in Steelers lore, but his overall body of work is what truly elevates him to this lofty position. As the franchise's all-time leading rusher, Harris was a workhorse back who powered the Steelers' offense during their championship runs. His combination of power, speed, and vision made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he played a crucial role in four Super Bowl victories.
5. Jack Lambert - Linebacker
Renowned for his ferocious play and intimidating presence, Jack Lambert was the heart and soul of the Steelers' defense in the 1970s. A nine-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Lambert was the embodiment of the Steelers' physical, hard-nosed style of play. His ability to read and react to plays, coupled with his relentless pursuit of the ball carrier, made him one of the most dominant linebackers in NFL history.
6. Rod Woodson - Cornerback
A true Renaissance man of the NFL, Rod Woodson excelled in multiple facets of the game. As a lockdown cornerback, he was a nine-time Pro Bowler and the 1993 Defensive Player of the Year. But Woodson's versatility was on full display, as he also made an impact as a return specialist and a safety. His ability to make game-changing plays, whether it was an interception, a forced fumble, or a long kickoff return, made him one of the most dynamic players in Steelers history.
7. Ben Roethlisberger - Quarterback
The cornerstone of the Steelers' success in the 2000s and 2010s, Ben Roethlisberger is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in franchise history. As the team's all-time leader in passing attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns, "Big Ben" led the Steelers to two Super Bowl championships and four additional AFC title game appearances. His ability to make plays under pressure and deliver in clutch moments, exemplified by his game-winning touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in Super Bowl XLIII, cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era
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8. Donnie Shell - Safety
A key member of the Steelers' "Steel Curtain" defense, Donnie Shell was a dominant force in the secondary. As the franchise's second all-time leader in interceptions with 51, Shell earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections and won four Super Bowls with the Steelers. His hard-hitting style and knack for making game-changing plays made him one of the most feared safeties of his era, and his impact on the Steelers' dynasty cannot be overstated.
9. Lynn Swann - Wide Receiver
The epitome of the "big-play" receiver, Lynn Swann's acrobatic catches and clutch performances in the biggest moments have cemented his place in Steelers lore. Alongside fellow Hall of Famer John Stallworth, Swann formed one of the most dynamic receiving duos in NFL history, providing a perfect complement to the Steelers' power-running game. His MVP performance in Super Bowl X, which included several highlight-reel catches, solidified his status as one of the greatest wide receivers to ever don the black and gold.
10. Mike Webster - Center
The anchor of the Steelers' offensive line during their championship runs in the 1970s, Mike Webster was the quintessential blue-collar player. As the team's starting center for 15 seasons, Webster was the foreman of some of the most dominant offensive lines in NFL history, paving the way for the Steelers' legendary running game. His relentless work ethic, toughness, and leadership were instrumental in the team's four Super Bowl victories, and his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to his enduring legacy.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' rich history is a testament to the incredible talent that has graced the franchise over the decades. From the Steel Curtain defense of the 1970s to the modern-day powerhouses led by Ben Roethlisberger, this list of the top 10 Steelers of all time showcases the enduring excellence that has defined one of the NFL's most successful organizations. Each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations of Steelers fans for years to come.
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