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Who's on your back? The dawn of a new season of Steelers football means different things to different people. To some, it means five months of emotional highs and lows. For others, it means forging a rich bond with fellow Steeler fans every Sunday. For Browns fans, it means getting re-acquainted with the phrase "wait until next year." For others, it means picking up yet another jersey, a sign of Black & Gold devotion that will hopefully serve you not only this season, but ideally for many years to come. Fortunately, as Steeler fans we have a rich history of blue chip jerseys to turn to: Bradshaw, Lambert, Harris, Swann, Stallworth, Greene, Ham, Webster… the mind boggles at the possibilities. Even the 1966 "golden shoulder" jersey from Andy Russell's early days would earn you god-like status in any Steelers bar (in fact, if you know where one might find such a vintage garment, please e-mail Michael.Shore@turner.com). However, what if you want to rep for the folks who will actually take the field this season? Personally, I usually opt for players no longer on the active roster since I’m convinced that as soon as I buy a player's jersey, I'm somehow cursing him (my closet is littered with official and replica jerseys from a host of busts like Brister and Foster). But if you're determined to get a guy who's currently on the roster, you’ll want to land not only a star, but a star with staying power. Hopefully, the following will help to guide you on your journey: Steer Clear Tommy Maddox: I love him, you love him, we all love him… that’s why everyone seems to have his jersey already. My advice: cheer like hell for Tommy on Sundays, but look for something more unique when buying a jersey. Plaxico Burress: He’s a playmaker, and has matured into one of the league’s premiere receivers. However, I can’t imagine his stay in Pittsburgh lasting that long. As his profile continues to rise and teams come calling, Plex could wind up jumping ship, torpedoing your investment. If you must represent for Burress, go with a replica jersey. Troy Polamalu: Hey, we’re all excited about the new kid, but it’s way to soon to shell out for his jersey. Again, if you’re fired up and want to wear number 43, think replica. Even Money Amos Zeroue: Sure he’s the starter (for now) and he’s an explosive runner, but the volatility of the situation in the backfield makes the Zeroue jersey less than a sure thing. Jerome Bettis: On one hand, his place in Steelers history is cemented. On the other, he’s currently on the bench and could be trade bait before the end of the season. Kendrell Bell: He’s a rock now, but that ankle could be a problem. So could the free agent market given the Steelers’ depth at linebacker and notoriously short pockets. Antwaan Randle-El: Yes, he’s electrifying. A lot of other people feel the same way and have his jersey already. Best Bets Hines Ward: A spectacular playmaker with a smashmouth sensibility. Ward and Pittsburgh go hand-in-hand, so he should be a star for the Steelers for many years to come. Joey Porter: The man was shot in the ass, but was still running along the sidelines a week later cheering on his teammates. If that doesn’t make you The Man, I don’t know what does. Kendall Simmons: Last year’s Steelers rookie of the year is continuing to be a rock for the offensive line. This organization values quality linemen (despite what the Wayne Gandy incident would lead you to believe) so he should be here for while. Casey Hampton: One of the unsung heroes of the defense, Hampton has been wreaking havoc on opposing offenses, and at the age of 26, could continue to do so for the Black & Gold for years to come. Gold Star Pick Alan Faneca: This beloved Black & Gold battering ram is the embodiment of hard-nosed Steelers football. This two-time Pro Bowl starter could be the best player the Steelers have at any position. Lineman don’t get a chance to shine on Sportscenter, but Faneca should be pancaking opposing defenders as part of the Steelers’ line for many years to come. Of course, if you want to show up at a game wearing a Kent Graham jersey, chances are we’ll still just be happy to see someone else in black and gold. In Franco we trust, Mean Rob more deep thoughts: Who's Got The O? Have A Black & Gold Christmas Who Better? Why Are The Steelers The Only Team That Matters? Who's On Your Back? How To Pick Your Next Jersey The 'Burgh In Your Living Room... All Hail DirectTV back to main Send questions and comments to MeanRob@SteelersNYC.com |
