Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 28: a history of the number and who wore it best

The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 28 days until Pittsburgh faces off against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.

The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 28 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. 28 and the players who wore it best.

Current Steelers No. 28 wearer: S Miles Killebrew

Dec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) runs off the field after the victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

One of the best special teams contributors in the NFL, Killebrew is the current Steelers wearer of No. 28. Signing with Pittsburgh as a free agent in 2021, Killebrew has earned two Pro Bowl nominations and one First-Team All-Pro selection over the past two seasons — the heart and soul of the Steelers special teams unit, who's looking to make an even bigger splash in 2025.

Last five Steelers to wear No. 28:

  • Miles Killebrew, 2021-present
  • Mike Hilton, 2018-2020
  • Sean Davis, 2016-2017
  • Cortez Allen, 2011-2015
  • Crezdon Butler, 2010

Best No. 28 in Steelers history: DB Clendon Thomas

DB Clendon Thomas is the best Steeler to ever wear No. 28. A standout collegiate athlete known for his ability to play a multitude of positions, Thomas was selected by the Los Angeles Rams with the 19th overall pick in the second round of the 1958 NFL Draft. He was traded to the Steelers in 1962 — where he earned one Pro Bowl nomination and three Second-Team All-Pro selections during his stellar Pittsburgh tenure. From 1962 to 1968, Thomas produced 23 interceptions for the Black and Gold — the thirteenth-most by a Steeler all time. His contributions to the Steel City brand of football earned him a spot on the Pittsburgh Steelers Legends Team — leaving no doubt that he was the best to ever wear No. 28.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 28: history behind the jersey

Category: Football