The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an impressive history of talent since the turn of the century. From Super Bowl victories to numerous division titles, the Steelers have consistently fielded a competitive roster, and many players from this era have etched their names into the franchise’s storied legacy.
Here’s a ranking of the 10 best players to wear the Steelers uniform since 2000, showcasing the incredible talent and memorable moments that helped shape the team’s success.
Honorable Mentions
Before diving into the top 10, it’s important to recognize several players who had a significant impact on the Steelers’ success but didn’t quite make the cut for the main list. These honorable mentions include:
TE Heath Miller
DE Aaron Smith
NT Casey Hampton
LB Joey Porter
RB Le’Veon Bell
RB Willie Parker
LB James Farrior
S Minkah Fitzpatrick
10. Jerome Bettis, RB (1996-05)
Though Bettis’ best years were in the ’90s, his contributions in the 2000s were still crucial to the team’s success. With over 5,000 rushing yards in the 2000s, Bettis helped lead the Steelers to a Super Bowl win in 2006. His resilience and ability to find the end zone, especially in short-yardage situations, earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.
9. Cameron Heyward, DT (2011-present)
Heyward started his career quietly but has become one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive linemen. With multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro honors to his name, Heyward continues to be a force for the Steelers. His leadership and consistency have helped anchor the team’s defense for over a decade.
8. Maurkice Pouncey, C (2010-20)
Pouncey’s contributions to the offensive line were key to the success of Pittsburgh’s offense, especially during the prime years of Ben Roethlisberger’s career.
A nine-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Pouncey’s blocking helped solidify the Steelers’ offensive line and gave their quarterbacks and running backs the protection they needed.
7. Antonio Brown, WR (2010-18)
Brown’s six-year stretch from 2013 to 2018 was one of the best runs by any receiver in NFL history. His ability to make game-changing plays and put up record-breaking statistics earned him seven Pro Bowl selections.
Despite his tumultuous end to his Steelers career, Brown’s impact on the field during his peak years was undeniable.
6. James Harrison, OLB (2002, 2004-12, 2014-17)
Harrison’s career was a testament to hard work and resilience, having gone from undrafted free agent to NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2008.
Known for his physicality, Harrison was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, finishing as the Steelers’ all-time leader in sacks and recording memorable plays like his 100-yard pick-six in Super Bowl XLIII.
5. Hines Ward, WR (1998-11)
Ward’s hard-nosed style of play and leadership on the field made him a fan favorite. As the Steelers’ career leader in catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns, Ward was also a two-time Super Bowl champion and Super Bowl MVP. His blocking skills were legendary, setting the standard for physicality in a wide receiver.
4. Alan Faneca, G (1998-07)
Faneca was the cornerstone of the Steelers’ offensive line for a decade, earning seven Pro Bowls and five All-Pro selections.
His dominant play helped the Steelers win Super Bowl XL and enabled running backs like Jerome Bettis and Willie Parker to thrive. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021, Faneca was one of the best guards to ever play the game.
3. T.J. Watt, OLB (2017-present)
Watt has become the face of the Steelers’ defense since his arrival in 2017. A four-time All-Pro and the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt’s sack numbers are among the best in NFL history.
His versatility and playmaking ability, including his franchise-record 108 career sacks, make him one of the most impactful defenders of his generation.
2. Ben Roethlisberger, QB (2004-21)
No player has shaped the Steelers’ success in the 21st century more than Ben Roethlisberger. A two-time Super Bowl champion and one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, Roethlisberger redefined the quarterback position with his ability to extend plays and make clutch throws.
His leadership and resilience led the Steelers to many playoff appearances, and his iconic touchdown pass in Super Bowl XLIII remains one of the greatest moments in franchise history.
1. Troy Polamalu, SS (2003-14)
Troy Polamalu is the Steelers’ best player of the 21st century and one of the most dominant safeties to ever play the game. Known for his playmaking ability, Polamalu was the heart and soul of Pittsburgh’s defense during their Super Bowl victories in 2005 and 2008.
His acrobatic interceptions and ability to change the course of games, including his famous pick-six in the 2008 AFC Championship, earned him NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2010 and a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
