TJ Watt is now much closer to solidifying his legacy with the Pittsburgh Steelers, having reportedly signed a three-year extension, which makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history based on average annual salary. Turning 30 last fall, Watt has quickly established himself as one of the franchise’s top players of this century, standing out among the Steelers’ many talented athletes since 2000—a period in which the team secured two Super Bowl victories, three AFC Championships, and ten division titles, all while maintaining a record 21 consecutive winning seasons.
The Steelers have enjoyed unparalleled talent over the years, contributing to their sustained success. Legendary “Steel Curtain” player Joe Greene is often hailed as the greatest in franchise history, but debates continue around who holds that title in the 21st century. This prompted a ranking of the top 10 Steelers players since 2000, with special mentions to those who narrowly missed the cut.
Honorable mentions include Jerome Bettis (RB, 1996-2005), who, despite his prime being in the 1990s, contributed significantly in the 2000s with over 5,199 rushing yards—third-best in franchise history for the century. Bettis earned six Pro Bowl selections, helped lead the team during a 15-1 season, and retired after aiding the Steelers to their first Super Bowl win in 26 years. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.
Camaraderie, perseverance, and top-tier talent also define players like Cameron Heyward, a perennial Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro since becoming a starter in 2013, and Maurkice Pouncey, a dominant center with nine Pro Bowls and integral roles in AFC victories alongside elite teammates. Antonio Brown shines as a prolific wide receiver from 2010 to 2018, with multiple NFL-leading receptions and yardage, notably boosting the Steelers’ offense despite injury challenges. James Harrison’s rise from undrafted rookie to Defensive Player of the Year and franchise sack leader is a testament to determination.
Hines Ward stands out not only for his receiving stats—leading the franchise in catches, yards, and touchdowns—but also as one of the best blocking receivers in NFL history, earning two Super Bowl titles and a Super Bowl MVP. Alan Faneca, a guard with multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro nods, was pivotal in protecting quarterbacks and opening lanes for running backs during his tenure from 1998 to 2007.
TJ Watt, one of the most dominant defenders in recent history, has amassed numerous accolades, including the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year and multiple sack records, cementing his status among Steelers greats. Ben Roethlisberger, though not securing the top spot, is arguably the most instrumental player in the franchise’s recent Super Bowl successes, guiding the team with his prolific passing and leadership since being drafted in 2004.
Finally, Troy Polamalu, widely regarded as the Steelers’ best player since 2000, provided critical game-changing plays in Super Bowl runs and earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2010. His impact on the team’s defense was priceless, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Fame.
Fan Take: This extension for TJ Watt is a landmark moment not just for the Steelers but for the NFL, highlighting the growing financial and strategic recognition of elite defensive players. Watt’s continued presence promises to keep Pittsburgh competitive and showcases how defense remains a crucial pillar in the success of modern football teams.
