Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 45: a history of the number and who wore it best
Current Steelers No. 45 wearers: LS Tucker Addington, OLB Julius Welschof
There are two Steelers currently wearing No. 45 heading into the 2025 season: LS Tucker Addington and OLB Julius Welschof. Addington will compete with LS Christian Kuntz at training camp for the starting long snapper position, while Welschof — who gives the Steelers an additional roster spot thanks to the International Player Pathway — is looking for a depth role in a loaded outside linebacker room.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 45:
Best No. 45 in Steelers history: DB Jimmy Allen
Jimmy Allen is the best Steeler to ever wear No. 45. Drafted with the 100th overall pick in the fourth round of Pittsburgh's legendary 1974 NFL Draft class, Allen played four seasons with the Steelers from 1974 to 1977 — winning two Super Bowls along the way. He appeared in 50 games for Pittsburgh and recorded seven interceptions before being traded to the Detroit Lions in 1978. A solid contributor during one of the most iconic defensive eras in league history, Allen remains the greatest to wear No. 45 in the Steel City.
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