The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 49 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. 49 and the players who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 49 wearer: LB Jeremiah Moon
Moon currently wears No. 49 for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Signing with the Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Moon spent most of his time on Baltimore’s practice squad until he was waived on January 25, 2024. The Steelers claimed him off waivers one day later — where he ultimately become a solid contributor on special teams. He re-signed with Pittsburgh on a one-year deal last March and looks to compete at training camp for a spot on the 53-man roster.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 49:
Jeremiah Moon, 2024-presentTariq Carpenter, 2023Cassius Marsh, 2020Sean McHugh, 2008Dwayne Woodruff, 1979-1990
Best No. 49 in Steelers history: DB Dwayne Woodruff
Dwayne Woodruff is the best Steeler to ever wear No. 49. Drafted by Pittsburgh with the 161st overall pick in the sixth round of the 1979 NFL Draft, Woodruff had a consistent and productive career in the Steel City. He played in 157 games for Pittsburgh — starting in 105 of them — and his 37 career interceptions rank fifth on the Steelers’ all-time list. A pivotal member of the Steelers’ Super Bowl XIV championship roster, his overall elite play and AFC-leading five interceptions earned him team MVP honors in 1982. One of the most underrated defensive backs in franchise history, there is no greater wearer of No. 49 than Woodruff.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 49: history behind the jersey