Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 56: a history of the number and who wore it best
Current Steelers No. 56 wearer: OLB Alex Highsmith
One of the most underrated yet dominant pass rushers in the NFL today, Alex Highsmith currently wears No. 56 for the Steelers. Drafted with the 102nd overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Highsmith has produced 35.5 sacks in his first five seasons with Pittsburgh. With T.J. Watt's current holdout showing no signs of slowing down, expect Highsmith to play a pivotal role in getting the Steelers edge rushers ready for the 2025 season.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 56:
Alex Highsmith, 2020-present
Anthony Chickillo, 2015-2019
LaMarr Woodley, 2007-2013
Chukky Okobi, 2001-2006
Mike Vrabel, 1998-2000
Best No. 56 in Steelers history: OLB LaMarr Woodley
While many Steelers greats have donned No. 56, OLB LaMarr Woodley is the best. Woodley was drafted by Pittsburgh with the 46th overall pick in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft, playing in 94 games over seven seasons with the Steelers from 2007 to 2013. A force off the edge, Woodley helped lead the Steelers to a Super Bowl XLIII victory. He also earned Second-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2009, after leading the team with 13.5 sacks. Woodley's impressive 57 career sacks with the Steelers rank ninth in team history. A standout presence in one of Pittsburgh's toughest defensive eras, Woodley is the greatest Steeler to ever wear No. 56.
Honorable mentions: LB Robin Cole, who played in 150 games for Pittsburgh, was a four-time Super Bowl champion, and earned Pro Bowl honors in 1984; and C Ray Mansfield, who played in 182 games for the Steelers and was a two-time Super Bowl champion.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 56: history behind the jersey
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