The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 70 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. 70 and the player who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 70 wearer: N/A
There isn’t a current wearer of No. 70 on the Steelers roster — and for good reason, as the jersey was officially retired in 1964 out of respect for one of Pittsburgh’s legendary defenders from the 1950s and early 1960s.
Best No. 70 in Steelers history: DT Ernie Stautner
Stautner is the best (and only) wearer of No. 70 in Steelers history. He was drafted with the 22nd overall pick in the second round of the 1950 NFL Draft. Stautner played for the Steelers from 1950 to 1963, appearing in 173 games — 143 of which came as starts. He was named first-team All-Pro once, second-team All-Pro four times, and made nine Pro Bowls. Arguably the most important player of the organization’s first quarter-century of existence, Stautner became the first Steeler to have his jersey retired — on October 25, 1964, during halftime of a matchup against the Eagles.
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