Joey Porter Is Steelers’ Best No. 55 For 2026 Countdown

Current No. 55 Wearer

The Steelers’ countdown to the 2026 regular season is well underway, with just 55 days remaining before the team meets the Atlanta Falcons on September 13. On the field today, linebacker Cole Holcomb carries the No. 55 jersey, serving as the top backup behind starters Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson. Holcomb joined the roster in 2023 and has become a steady presence in the defensive unit.

Recent Players to Wear the Number

• Cole Holcomb – 2023 to present, the current No. 55 and a key rotational linebacker for Pittsburgh.

Why Joey Porter Holds the Crown

When it comes to the No. 55 uniform, Steelers fans overwhelmingly point to Joey Porter Sr. as the most accomplished wearer. Drafted in the third round (73rd overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft, Porter spent eight seasons (1999‑2006) with Pittsburgh, appearing in 122 games and amassing 60 sacks—placing him seventh all‑time among Steelers defensive linemen. His pass‑rush tenacity helped anchor the Super Bowl XL championship defense.

Porter’s impact earned him three Pro Bowl selections with the Steelers, a fourth with the Miami Dolphins, and the First‑Team All‑Pro honor in 2002. He also earned spots on the Steelers All‑Time Team, the Steelers Hall of Honor, and the NFL 2000s All‑Decade Team, cementing his status as the only realistic candidate for the greatest No. 55 in franchise history.

Illustrations from the 2000s Era

Legacy and Honors

Joey Porter’s impact goes far beyond his statistical achievements. He was a fixture on a defensive line that captured the Super Bowl XL trophy, and his relentless pass rush earned recognition from peers and coaches alike. Even after his playing days, Porter remains a respected figure among Steelers fans and alumni.

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