Dermontti Dawson is one of the best centers in Pittsburgh Steelers history along with NFL history, and his number 63 has never been worn by another Steeler since he retired from the NFL. Appearing on the Irish Steelers Podcast, Dawson called it an “honor” that his number hasn’t been re-issued since.
“I was dedicated to Pittsburgh, because during free agency, after my rookie [contract], I had an opportunity to sign a contract with other teams. But I wanted to be a one-team player and stay with the Steelers. And I was dedicated to those guys. I know they know that, even though I didn’t verbally say that, I don’t think, but I wanted to stay and finish my career in Pittsburgh.