The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 50 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. 50 and the players who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 50 wearer: LB Malik Harrison
Malik Harrison is the current wearer of No. 50 on the Steelers roster. Drafted by the Ravens with the 98th overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Harrison spent his first five NFL seasons in Baltimore, where he totaled 174 combined tackles, seven tackles for loss, and two sacks across 76 games. He signed with the Steelers on a two-year, $10 million contract this offseason, aiming to serve as Pittsburgh’s dedicated run-stopping linebacker.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 50:
Malik Harrison, 2025-presentElandon Roberts, 2023-2024Malik Reed, 2022Delontae Scott, 2021-2022Ryan Shazier, 2014-2017
Best No. 50 in Steelers history: LB Ryan Shazier
Despite only playing four seasons, Ryan Shazier is the best Steeler to ever wear No. 50. Drafted by Pittsburgh with the 15th overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Shazier wasted little time emerging as one of the league’s most dynamic inside linebackers. From 2014 to 2017, Shazier produced 299 combined tackles, 24 tackles for loss, seven sacks, seven forced fumbles, and seven interceptions — being named to two Pro Bowls for his elite play. As many Steelers fans are aware, Shazier tragically suffered a career-ending spinal cord injury in 2017, but he never gave up on his long road to recovery — inspiring those facing seemingly impossible challenges in their lives. Though his time on the field was brief, what Shazier brought to the Steel City of Pittsburgh is irreplaceable — making him the best Steeler to ever wear No. 50.
Honorable mention: LB David Little, who played in 179 games for the Steelers from 1981 to 1992 and earned one Pro Bowl during his consistent tenure with Pittsburgh.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 50: history behind the jersey
