The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 31 days until Pittsburgh faces off against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
The Steelers countdown to kickoff is here — and we’re at 31 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. 31 and the players who wore it best.
Current Steelers No. 31 wearer: CB Beanie Bishop
One of the most surprising rookie breakouts last season — CB Beanie Bishop is the current No. 31 wearer on the Steelers roster. After signing with Pittsburgh as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft, Bishop clearly had a chip on his shoulder — snagging four interceptions in just six starts as a rookie. His role in 2025 is expected to be far less impactful after two huge cornerback additions this offseason in Darius Slay and Jalen Ramsey, but his development should skyrocket with two veteran presences in the secondary.
Last five Steelers to wear No. 31:
- Beanie Bishop, 2024-present
- Keanu Neal, 2023
- Quincy Wilson, 2022
- Justin Layne, 2019-2021
- Nat Berhe, 2018
Best No. 31 in Steelers history: S Donnie Shell
The greatest Steeler to wear No. 31 is without a doubt S Donnie Shell — who signed with Pittsburgh after going undrafted in the 1974 NFL Draft. Over the course of 14 seasons from 1974 to 1987, Shell played in 201 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers — responsible for 51 interceptions, the third-most by a Steeler all time.
During his Pittsburgh tenure, Shell won four Super Bowls alongside the legendary Steel Curtain defense — as well as being named to five Pro Bowls, earning three First-Team All-Pro selections, and one Second-Team All-Pro selection. He was also recognized and celebrated on the Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team, the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. Shell's impact on the game and his part in creating the Steel City dynasty is why he's the best Steeler to ever wear No. 31.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers countdown to kickoff — No. 31: history behind the jersey
Category: Football
