7 days ago
Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 52: a history of the number and who wore it best
The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we're at 52 days until Pittsburgh faces off against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. In the spirit of the countdown, we're taking a look at the history of No. 52 and the players who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 52 wearer: N/A
There isn't a current Steeler wearing No. 52 — and for good reason, as the number has remained unofficially retired since the greatest to wear it left Pittsburgh.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 52:
Best No. 52 in Steelers history: C Mike Webster
Mike Webster is without a doubt the best Steeler to ever wear No. 52. Drafted by Pittsburgh with the 125th overall pick in the fifth round of the 1974 NFL Draft, Webster spent 15 years with the Steelers, from 1974 to 1988 — playing in 220 games and starting in 194 of them. The anchor of the Steelers' offensive line that helped kickstart a dynasty, Webster helped bring four Super Bowl championships to the Steel City. He was named First-Team All-Pro six times, Second-Team All-Pro twice, and earned nine Pro Bowl selections. Webster was also named to both the NFL 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams, as well as the NFL 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997, in addition to being recognized on the Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team and in the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor. No Steeler has worn No. 52 since — and no one ever should, as Webster's legacy is second to none.
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