The Pittsburgh Steelers, one of the NFL's most exciting teams, has seen all sorts of legendary players grace the gridiron over the years. From some of the most iconic quarterbacks to those scarily intimidating defenders, the Steelers have a history filled with some of the most incredible footballing talents.
Here, we are going to look at some of the best players ever to wear that famous black and gold uniform.
"Mean" Joe Greene
No list of the greatest Steelers players can exist without the mention of "Mean" Joe Greene. A cornerstone of the dominant Steelers' defense in the 1970s, Greene was a real force to be reckoned with - and was terrifying for the opponents when he played on the defensive line.
A 10-time Pro Bowler, four-time Super Bowl champion, and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, his impact went way beyond the stats - and he was one of the reasons that they were always top of the NFL betting odds during that era. His leadership and fearsome play set the tone for the Steel Curtain's unbreakable defense.
Terry Bradshaw
The Steelers' success in the 1970s was very much thanks to the quarterback play of Terry Bradshaw. A two-time Super Bowl MVP, Bradshaw guided his team to four championships during the decade.
Known for his seriously strong arm - and his clutch performances, he has to rank among the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history… ever. His four Super Bowl wins, along with his Hall of Fame induction, have earned him a place on the list of the best Steelers players ever.
Franco Harris
When the Steelers needed it the most, Franco Harris was usually the man to deliver. Best remembered for the Immaculate Reception in the 1972 playoffs, he was a major figure in the Steelers' ground attack during their championship years.
A nine-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion, to this day, he is still the franchise's all-time leading rusher. He had an ability to grind out the tough yards - that defined a whole era of Steelers football.
Jack Lambert
Jack Lambert was the personification of the hard-nosed and relentless spirit of the Steel Curtain defense. As a seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, this was a man who had an intensity and on-field demeanor that struck fear into the very hearts of his opponents.
Famed for his leadership as the defensive captain, he was the anchor in a defense that dominated the entire NFL league throughout the glorious 1970s.
Hines Ward
In the world of Steelers wide receivers, Hines Ward has to be one of the very best. The all-time leading receiver in Steelers history, Ward was renowned for his toughness, incredible blocking, and clutch catches.
As a two-time Super Bowl champion and Super Bowl MVP, his contributions extended way beyond the numbers, and he was a hugely popular figure in Steeler Nation.
Rod Woodson
Rod Woodson's impact as a cornerback and safety for the Steelers cannot be understated. As a major player in the 1995 Super Bowl-winning team, his versatility and playmaking ability set him apart from the rest.
A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, his stunning 71 career interceptions make him one of the all-time leaders… and he has a legacy as one of the best-ever defensive backs in NFL history.
Ben Roethlisberger
The quarterback position was always in safe hands after Ben Roethlisberger arrived on the team in 2004. As a two-time Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowler, this player holds a number of franchise records.
He had the ability to extend plays and deliver in the most important moments, which has endeared him to Steelers fans. His longevity and success have made him a hugely important figure in the team's history.
Mel Blount
Mel Blount had a physical style of play that completely revolutionized the cornerback position. A huge part of the Steel Curtain defense, he had an imposing presence that completely disrupted opposing passing attacks.
As a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion, his impact led to rule changes designed to curb physical cornerback play - and his influence on the game cannot be denied.
So, there you have it… the Pittsburgh Steelers have been home to some of the most iconic and legendary names in the NFL. From the Steel Curtain era to their most recent successes, these players have all left a mark on one of the most exciting teams in the sport.
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