​The Pittsburgh Steelers’ countdown to kickoff is full steam ahead for the 2026 NFL regular season, with fans needing to wait just 63 more days until the Steel City brand of football returns when the Steelers host the Atlanta Falcons on September 13. In keeping with the countdown spirit, Steelers Wire will explore the history of the No. 63 jersey and assess which player wore it best.
There isn’t a current Steelers roster member wearing No. 63, as the number has been unofficially retired out of respect for the franchise’s greatest player to wear it. The list of notable No. 63s includes Dermontti Dawson (1988–2000), Robert Washington (1987), Pete Rostosky (1984–1986), Thom Dornbrook (1979), and Ernie Holmes (1972–1977). A photo from November 1975 captures Steelers defensive tackle Ernie Holmes on the sideline during the 1975 season, a reminder of the era in which the number carried significant meaning for Pittsburgh.
Among all who wore No. 63, Dermontti Dawson stands above the rest as the most legendary center in Steelers history. Dawson was selected by the Steelers with the 44th overall pick in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft and went on to play 13 seasons in Pittsburgh. He appeared in 184 games and started 181, earning seven Pro Bowl honors and six First-Team All-Pro selections. His impact extended beyond statistics: Dawson was named to the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, is included in the Steelers Hall of Honor and All-Time Team, and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. By these measures, Dawson is widely regarded as the greatest No. 63 in team history.
For ongoing Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and like our Facebook page. This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire and highlights Day No. 63 of the 2026 countdown to kickoff, reflecting on the jersey’s legacy and the player who defined it.