When the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Dermontti Dawson in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft, they knew they were getting a talented player. But what they couldn’t have anticipated was how he would redefine the center position, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
Dawson’s path to stardom began with a challenge. Following the retirement of Hall of Famer Mike Webster in 1989, Dawson faced the unenviable task of stepping into the shoes of a legend. Webster, a four-time Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowler, had set a standard of excellence in Pittsburgh. For many, the pressure might have been overwhelming. For Dawson, it was an opportunity.
From the moment he took over as the starting center, Dawson didn’t merely aim to emulate Webster—he forged his own path. Known for his extraordinary athleticism, Dawson brought a new level of mobility and finesse to the position. His ability to pull and block on the move was revolutionary, allowing the Steelers to innovate in their offensive schemes. With Dawson anchoring the line, Pittsburgh’s rushing attack flourished, becoming one of the league’s most consistent and formidable units.
A seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time First-Team All-Pro, Dawson’s accolades speak volumes. Yet, it was his consistency and durability that set him apart. Over his 13-year career, Dawson played in 184 games, missing only a handful despite the physical toll of the position. His leadership and work ethic were instrumental in maintaining the Steelers’ identity as a hard-nosed, blue-collar football team.
Dawson’s influence extended beyond Pittsburgh. He became the gold standard for centers, inspiring a new generation of players to prioritize agility and versatility alongside power and toughness. His innovative play earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012, solidifying his place among the NFL’s all-time greats.
For Steelers fans, Dawson’s career is a testament to resilience, excellence, and the seamless transition from one era of dominance to another. He didn’t just fill the gap left by a legend—he created a legacy of his own.
