Ranking the Greatest Pittsburgh Steelers of All Time

10. Jerome Bettis

Honors: Six-time Pro Bowler, Two-time First Team All-Pro, Hall of Fame

Known as “The Bus,” Bettis was a model of consistency, ranking eighth all-time in rushing yards. His powerful running style and durability earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame and a cherished place in Steelers lore. Bettis capped his career with a Super Bowl win in his hometown of Detroit.

9. Mike Webster

Honors: Nine-time Pro Bowler, Five-time First Team All-Pro, Hall of Fame

The heart of Pittsburgh’s offensive line in the 1970s and 1980s, Webster played a pivotal role in two Super Bowl wins. His durability and dominance earned him spots on two All-Decade teams, cementing his status as one of the greatest centers in NFL history.

8. Mel Blount

Honors: Five-time Pro Bowler, Two-time First Team All-Pro, 1975 Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame

A physical cornerback who redefined his position, Blount was so dominant that the NFL changed its rules to limit contact with receivers. His 11 interceptions in 1975 remain one of the most impressive single-season feats for a cornerback.

7. Jack Ham

Honors: Eight-time Pro Bowler, Six-time First Team All-Pro, Hall of Fame

An integral part of the Steel Curtain, Ham was known for his intelligence and versatility. His knack for timely turnovers and consistent excellence helped him earn first-ballot Hall of Fame honors.

6. Ben Roethlisberger

Honors: Six-time Pro Bowler

A franchise quarterback for nearly two decades, Big Ben holds virtually every Steelers passing record. With two Super Bowl victories and a top-10 ranking in NFL history for passing yards and touchdowns, Roethlisberger is Pittsburgh’s greatest passer.

5. Troy Polamalu

Honors: Eight-time Pro Bowler, Four-time First Team All-Pro, 2010 Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame

Polamalu‘s dynamic playmaking and uncanny instincts made him the face of the Steelers’ defense in the 2000s. Whether leaping over offensive lines or making game-changing interceptions, his versatility and athleticism were unmatched.

4. Jack Lambert

Honors: Nine-time Pro Bowler, Six-time First Team All-Pro, 1976 Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame

The backbone of the Steel Curtain, Lambert’s fierce leadership and relentless playing style set the tone for Pittsburgh’s defense in the 1970s. He was pivotal to the Steelers’ four Super Bowl titles in that era.

3. T.J. Watt

Honors: Six-time Pro Bowler, Four-time First Team All-Pro, 2021 Defensive Player of the Year

At just 29 years old, Watt already holds Pittsburgh’s career sack record and has led the league in sacks three times. A generational talent, Watt is one of the most dominant defenders in today’s NFL and a likely Hall of Famer.

2. Rod Woodson

Honors: Seven-time Pro Bowler, Five-time First Team All-Pro, 1993 Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame

One of the most versatile defensive backs in NFL history, Woodson excelled as a lockdown corner, a ballhawk, and a dangerous returner. His 10 defensive touchdowns and five First Team All-Pro selections solidify his place among the greats.

1. “Mean” Joe Greene

Honors: 10-time Pro Bowler, Three-time First Team All-Pro, Two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Hall of Fame

The cornerstone of the Steel Curtain, Joe Greene epitomized Pittsburgh’s physical and relentless brand of football. A four-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Greene remains the greatest Steeler of all time and the face of the franchise’s transformation.

This ranking honors the players who defined the Steelers’ success, combining individual excellence with contributions to the team’s championship legacy